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Presynaptic receptors in hypertension.
1Clinical Pharmacology Group, John P. Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Altered presynaptic adrenoceptor function may influence noradrenaline release, potentially contributing to hypertension. However, conclusive evidence linking these receptors to hypertension remains elusive.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Presynaptic adrenoceptors modulate sympathetic neurotransmitter release.
- Alpha-adrenoceptors inhibit noradrenaline (NA) release; beta-adrenoceptors facilitate it.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of presynaptic adrenoceptors in sympathetic neurotransmission.
- To investigate the potential contribution of altered adrenoceptor responsiveness to hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Pharmacological characterization of presynaptic alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor function.
- Review of existing literature on adrenoceptor responsiveness in hypertension models.
Main Results:
- Presynaptic alpha-adrenoceptors mediate negative feedback on NA release.
- Presynaptic beta-adrenoceptors mediate positive feedback on NA release.
- Evidence suggests a role for beta-adrenoceptors in hypertension development, but not maintenance.
Conclusions:
- Altered presynaptic adrenoceptor responsiveness could theoretically increase NA release.
- Current research findings on presynaptic adrenoceptor function in hypertension are inconclusive.