[New aspects of catecholamin-receptor interactions. Pathophysiological and clinical implications (author's transl)]

The molecular aspects of catecholamine-receptor interactions are reviewed with respect to their clinical implications. Beta- and in some tissues alpha-adrenergic receptors are coupled to the membrane-bound adenylate cyclase. The adrenergic receptor sites are distinct membrane constituents. Their number and the ratio alpha-to beta-receptor site depend on the plasma concentration of catecholamines and are affected by diet and endocrinological factors. Recent clinical studies suggest that long-term treatment with beta-adrenergic agonists may induces desensitization of target tissues due to changes in the adrenergic receptor moieties.