Does the medulla monitor blood pH

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The medulla oblongata plays a crucial role in regulating blood pH, primarily through its indirect monitoring of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. CO2 can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and is converted to hydrogen ions (H+) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. An increase in CO2 levels leads to a decrease in pH, which activates central chemoreceptors in the medulla, stimulating respiration to expel CO2 and restore pH balance. While some sources may suggest that the medulla only coordinates responses or monitors tissue fluid pH, its function in blood pH regulation is significant and closely tied to CO2 levels.
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Does the medulla monitor blood pH or is it only the receptors in the heart (aorta / carotid bodies)?
 
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Is this a homework question?
 
bobze said:
Is this a homework question?

no its a me being confused question
you see I have read several different books / sources and they each imply different things
some books imply it only monitors tissue fluid pH (Cerebospinal fluid) some imply it just acts as a co-ordinator and some imply it monitors blood pH

which one is correct ?
 
jsmith613 said:
no its a me being confused question
you see I have read several different books / sources and they each imply different things
some books imply it only monitors tissue fluid pH (Cerebospinal fluid) some imply it just acts as a co-ordinator and some imply it monitors blood pH

which one is correct ?

It does so indirectly by monitoring CO2 levels. CO2 crosses the BBB freely, which is converted by carbonic anhydrase to H+. in the CSF.

So if there is a rise in CO2 (think ultimately acid here), this will cause the central chemoreceptors to stimulate respiration: leading to you blowing off the acid and decreasing pH.
 

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