Characterization of Ectonucleotidase Expression in the Rat Carotid Body: Potential Regulation by Hypoxia?

The carotid body (CB) maintains homeostasis in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems of mammals by initiating reflex responses during exposures to blood‐borne stimuli such as low O 2 (hypoxia). Thus, stimulation of CB chemoreceptors during hypoxia results in compensatory hyperventilation and activation of the sympathoadrenal system. CB hyperactivity has been linked to several clinical morbidities including sleep apnea, chronic obstructive …