How Were Experiments for Hypoxic Drive Results?

Teppema and Dahan conducted studies mainly on mammalian organisms such as rats and rabbits. In the experiment, the neonatal organisms were exposed to a regular amount of gasses in the air. The O₂ and CO₂ reactions that occurred within the organisms were noted. After such reactions continued for one to two weeks in the neonatal organisms, the organisms were subject to hypoxia. The hypoxic ventilatory response that was initiated by the carotid bodies was blunted according to the scientists. This is important because it is the first sign of how the natural environment has created organisms accustomed to carbon dioxide control and minimal oxygen regulation. If the oxygen controls were blunted, then that means the Hypoxic Drive should be interpreted as a drive that is not meant to be put into effect till later in the maturation period of organisms.



Above is a picture of one of the mechanical devices that were used
to control the intake and output of ventilation for the organic 
substances and organisms upon which tests were run such as rats and 
rabbits. The rabbits required bigger chambers. The machine has a tight
air lock so as to maintain a very thorough experimental unit and system
that is well isolated.