Adrenergic control of lipid metabolism

Adrenergic receptors are ubiquitous and mediate several important effects involving lipid metabolism. Thus, beta-adrenergic stimulation increases lipolysis and inhibits the activity of the lipoprotein lipase. In contrast, alpha-adrenergic stimulation inhibits fat cell lipid mobilisation. Unexpectedly, beta-adrenergic blockade increases plasma triglyceride levels and tends to lower the high density lipoprotein (HDL-cholesterol). These effects seem to be prevented or attenuated by concomitant alpha-blockade. Possible mechanisms for the adrenergic effect on lipid metabolism are reviewed.