Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Disrupting Reconsolidation of Fear Memory in Humans by a Noradrenergic β-Blocker
Published on: December 18, 2014
Radical scavenging and NO-releasing properties of selected beta-adrenoreceptor antagonists
Piotr Szajerski1, Jacek Zielonka, Adam Sikora
1Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Technical University, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland.
Abstract:
It is claimed that novel beta-adrenolytic drugs possess superior antioxidant properties as compared to classical selective or non-selective beta-adrenoceptor antagonists. Here we tested this notion by analyzing radical scavenging properties of selected beta-adrenolytic drugs and their ability to release nitric oxide in biological preparations. Selective beta1-adrenolytics such as nebivolol, atenolol, metoprolol and non-selective beta-adrenolytics with alpha1-receptor blocking properties such as carvedilol and labetalol were chosen for analysis. NO-releasing properties of nebivolol and carvedilol distinguished third generation beta-adrenolytics from their older counterparts while the reactivity towards hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals discerns only carvedilol but not nebivolol. Thus, superior clinical efficacy of third generation beta-adrenolytics may be related to their ability to release NO rather then to their direct antioxidant properties.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenergic Antagonists: Chemistry and Classification of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
Nonselective α-blockers: Nonselective α-blockers contain haloalkylamine or imidazoline moieties. Phenoxybenzamine, with a haloalkylamine...
Adrenergic Antagonists: Pharmacological Actions of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
α1-blockers: These drugs inhibit α1-adrenoceptors on smooth muscle cells, resulting in vasodilation. This vasodilation lowers blood pressure, making α1-blockers valuable in treating hypertension. Additionally, α1-blockers effectively address urinary obstruction...
Adrenergic Antagonists: Chemistry and Classification of β-Receptor Blockers
Adrenergic Receptors: β Subtype
Isoprenaline > Adrenaline > Noradrenaline
Neurotransmitter binding to these receptors causes activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased concentrations of cAMP and modulation of calcium ion channels within the cell. They are further classified into β1, β2, and β3 subtypes.
β1-adrenoceptors: β1-adrenoceptors have equal affinities for...
Adrenergic Antagonists: ɑ and β-Receptor Blockers
Adrenergic Agonists: Direct-Acting Agents
These agents can be classified...

