ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses a general picture of baroreceptor function against the background of structure and mechanics of the baroreceptor zones. “Neurogenic hypertension,” i.e., the severe increase in blood pressure usually seen in acute experiments after abolishment of baroreceptor drive subsides within hours. In the carotid sinus of rabbits, one category of presumptive baroreceptor endings of unmyelinated axons approach elastin or collagen, and others, in addition, approach rather unique smooth muscle cells scattered singularily in the adventitia. Most baroreceptor studies rest on volume–pressure relations. It may, therefore, be appropriate to recall the fundamentals of arterial mechanics and to point out some potential pitfalls with this approach that bear on the interpretation of baroreceptor behavior. The pleasing correspondence of the plateau discharge rates of myelinated baroafferents marks the upper limit of their receptors’ working range under conditions when the pressure is sufficiently high to override smooth muscle tone.
