Beta-receptor regulation: dynamics of density and function throughout the cardiac cycle

Recent research shows beta-receptors in human myocardium can lose sensitivity to endogenous and exogenous stimulation. This decreased sensitivity known as down-regulation, explains several therapy. The clinical phenomena of concern to nursing and helps predict patient response to therapy. The concept of lusitropy (process of relaxation) and the use of pharmacologic beta-modulators are added to the traditional hemodynamic framework as integral parts of a new dynamic model.