Which sensors in the body monitor levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide?

Chemoreceptors are specialized sensory receptors that play a critical role in monitoring the levels of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the body. These sensors are primarily located in the carotid and aortic bodies, as well as in the medulla oblongata of the brain. Chemoreceptors respond to changes in the concentration of these gases in the bloodstream, providing vital feedback to the respiratory center in the brain to adjust breathing rates accordingly. This helps to maintain homeostasis by ensuring that the body's oxygen levels are adequate and that carbon dioxide is expelled efficiently.

The other types of receptors mentioned—osmoreceptors, baroreceptors, and mechanoreceptors—are responsible for monitoring different physiological parameters. Osmoreceptors detect changes in osmotic pressure and fluid balance, baroreceptors monitor blood pressure changes, and mechanoreceptors respond to mechanical changes such as pressure or distortion in tissues. Therefore, their functions do not include the direct monitoring of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, which is solely the function of chemoreceptors.