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Updated: May 22, 2026

Evaluation of Vascular Control Mechanisms Utilizing Video Microscopy of Isolated Resistance Arteries of Rats
Published on: December 5, 2017
Vasodilatory mechanisms of beta receptor blockade
Géraldine Rath1, Jean-Luc Balligand, Chantal Dessy
1Pole de Pharmacologie et Thérapeutique (FATH), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université catholique de Louvain, B01.5309, Avenue Mounier 52, 1200, Brussels, Belgium. geraldine.rath@uclouvain.be
Abstract:
Beta-blockers are widely prescribed for the treatment of a variety of cardiovascular pathologies. Compared to traditional beta-adrenergic antagonists, beta-blockers of the new generation exhibit ancillary properties such as vasodilation through different mechanisms. This translates into a more favorable hemodynamic profile. The relative affinities of beta-adrenoreceptor antagonists towards the three beta-adrenoreceptor isotypes matter for predicting their functional impact on vasomotor control. This review will focus on the mechanisms underlying beta-blocker-evoked vasorelaxation with a specific emphasis on agonist properties of beta(3)-adrenergic receptors.
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