Low pressure receptors

Low Pressure Receptors

Illustration of baroreceptors, a type of low pressure receptor

Low pressure receptors, also known as volume receptors or atrial receptors, are specialized sensory neurons located in the heart and large veins. They play a crucial role in the regulation of blood volume, blood pressure, and heart rate by responding to changes in the pressure of blood within these structures.

Structure and Location

Low pressure receptors are primarily found in the atria of the heart, the vena cava, and the pulmonary veins. They are stretch-sensitive mechanoreceptors that respond to changes in the volume and pressure of blood within these structures.

Function

The primary function of low pressure receptors is to monitor and respond to changes in blood volume and pressure. When blood volume or pressure increases, these receptors are stretched and send signals to the brain via the vagus nerve and glossopharyngeal nerve. This results in a decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity and an increase in parasympathetic nervous system activity, leading to a decrease in heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the function of low pressure receptors can lead to conditions such as orthostatic hypotension, congestive heart failure, and hypertension. Understanding the role of these receptors in cardiovascular regulation can help in the development of treatments for these conditions.

See Also

• Baroreceptor
• High pressure receptors
• Cardiovascular system