carotid body

noun

, Anatomy.

1. a small mass of cells and nerve endings adjacent to the carotid sinus that, in response to chemical changes in the blood, adjusts the respiratory rate.

carotid body

1. A mass of tissue near the carotid sinus that contains chemical receptors sensitive to oxygen and pH levels in the blood and that is involved in the regulation of respiratory activity.

Word History and Origins

Origin of carotid body¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Normally, Paton explained, the carotid body acts to regulate the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

From Reuters

In the Anura there is a rete or network into which the carotid artery breaks up in the position of the carotid body, and this has an important effect on the course of the circulation.

From Project Gutenberg

It is probable, however, that this structure has nothing to do with the carotid body of Mammalia.

From Project Gutenberg

It resembles the carotid body in its microscopical structure, but is not so vascular.

From Project Gutenberg

The probability is that, like the carotid body, it is sympathetic in origin.

From Project Gutenberg