Changes in blood glucose concentration in the carotid body modify brain glucose retention.

In a previous study we have shown that a decrease in baroreceptor output, elicited by carotid occlusion (Hering reflex), or chemoreceptor stimulation with small doses of cyanide (NaCN) increase arterial glucose levels and enhance glucose uptake by the brain (Alvarez-Buylla & R. de Alvarez-Buylla, 1988). This suggested the participation of the carotid sinus receptors in glucose homeostasis. In this paper we show that changes in blood glucose concentration in the carotid sinus influence the amount of glucose retained by the brain.