Adrenergic receptors

Adrenergic receptors (pronunciation: /ædrɪˈnɜːrdʒɪk rɪˈsɛptərz/), also known as adrenoceptors, are a class of G protein-coupled receptors that are targets of the catecholamines, particularly norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline).

Etymology

The term "adrenergic" is derived from the Latin adrenalinum (from the Greek adrenes, meaning 'glands') and the Greek ergon, meaning 'work'. This refers to the action of the hormones on the receptors.

Types of Adrenergic receptors

There are two main types of adrenergic receptors, Alpha and Beta, and several subtypes. Alpha receptors are usually excitatory, and beta receptors are usually inhibitory.

Alpha-adrenergic receptors

Alpha-adrenergic receptors have two subtypes: Alpha-1 and Alpha-2. Alpha-1 receptors are usually located on the postsynaptic membrane and are activated by norepinephrine released by sympathetic postganglionic neurons. Alpha-2 receptors are usually located on the presynaptic membrane and inhibit the release of norepinephrine from the neuron.

Beta-adrenergic receptors

Beta-adrenergic receptors have three subtypes: Beta-1, Beta-2, and Beta-3. Beta-1 receptors are primarily located in the heart and kidneys. Beta-2 receptors are found in the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver, uterus, vascular smooth muscle, and skeletal muscle. Beta-3 receptors are located in fat cells.

Function

Adrenergic receptors function by binding to the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, which triggers a response in the cell. This response can include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism.

Related terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Adrenergic receptors
Wikipedia's article - Adrenergic receptors

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Adrenergic receptors