We conclude that the ABT is a reproducible test of peripheral chemoreceptor function under standardized conditions.

Acute O 2 sensing by peripheral chemoreceptors is essential for mammalian homeostasis.

The ABT delivers a rapid hypoxic stimulus to the peripheral chemoreceptors with breath-by-breath alternations of the inspired O2 fraction.

Periodic breathing (PB) is an instability of the respiratory control system believed to be mediated principally by the peripheral chemoreceptors.