Abstract

In the last three decades studies of respiration have embarked on a new phase eliciting exciting new areas of investigation. At this juncture we are happy to contribute a brief article honoring NS Cherniack. During this transition period, features like oxygen sensing in the carotid body in the context of whole body has emerged. ATP has been proposed as a key mediator of peripheral chemosensory transduction at sea level. What role it can play at altitude acclimatization has not been discussed before. This brief review article raises some of the question looking for answers.

Keywords: ATP, carotid body, central chemotransduction, oxygen sensing, purinergic transmission