What are central chemoreceptors mainly sensitive to?

Central chemoreceptors are primarily sensitive to changes in carbon dioxide levels and pH in the cerebrospinal fluid. Located in the medulla oblongata of the brain, these receptors play a critical role in regulating respiratory drive. When carbon dioxide levels increase, it results in a decrease in pH (making the environment more acidic), which is detected by the central chemoreceptors. This triggers a response to increase the rate and depth of respiration, ensuring that more carbon dioxide is exhaled and helping to restore normal pH levels in the body. This mechanism is essential for maintaining homeostasis in the body's acid-base balance and ensuring adequate oxygen supply. Other factors, such as temperature, oxygen levels, and blood pressure, do influence respiratory function but are not the primary stimuli that central chemoreceptors respond to.