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β2-adrenoreceptors control human skin microvascular reactivity
Anselm Morell1, Javier Milara2, Laurabel Gozalbes3
1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Spain.
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|July 26, 2021
Summary
This study reveals that beta-2 adrenergic receptors (ADRB2) are key in skin micro-vessel vasodilation, suggesting they are a promising therapeutic target for rosacea treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Pharmacology
- Vascular Biology
- Adrenergic Receptor Research
Background:
- Topical alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenoreceptor agonists treat rosacea by vasoconstriction.
- Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists are used off-label for rosacea, but their role in skin micro-vessels is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of adrenergic receptors (ADRs) in human skin micro-vessels.
- To determine the functional role of ADRs in skin micro-vessel vasoreactivity.
Main Methods:
- Human foreskin micro-vessels (small arteries and arterioles) were analyzed for ADR expression using immunofluorescence, PCR, and Western blotting.
- Ex vivo myography and a microscope perfusion system were used to assess micro-vessel reactivity to adrenergic agonists and antagonists.
Main Results:
- Beta-2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) showed the highest expression, followed by alpha-2 (ADRA2).
- ADRA2 activation by brimonidine caused greater vasoconstriction in arterioles than small arteries.
- ADRB2-mediated vasodilation was observed in response to norepinephrine after alpha-1 blockade, inhibited by beta-blockers.
Conclusions:
- ADRB2 is predominantly expressed in skin micro-vessels and plays a significant role in vasodilation.
- Adrenergic receptors, particularly ADRB2, represent a potential therapeutic target for managing rosacea.
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