Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
Published on: June 7, 2016
Molecular determinants of the alpha-2D adrenergic receptor subtype
H S Blaxall1, D A Heck, D B Bylund
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-6260.
Abstract:
The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor in the bovine pineal gland and the rodent homologues of the human alpha-2-C10 receptor express alpha-2D subtype pharmacological characteristics. The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor in the chicken pineal expresses characteristics similar to the alpha-2A subtype found in human and pig. The rodent receptors (alpha-2D) contain a serine residue at position 201 whereas the human and porcine receptors (alpha-2A) have a cysteine at this position. Our results indicate that the bovine pineal receptor has a serine at position 201, supporting the alpha-2D classification. However, the chicken pineal receptor also contains a serine at position 201 suggesting that other amino acids may be responsible for the differences in pharmacological characteristics.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Adrenergic Receptors (Adrenoceptors): Classification
α-Adrenoceptors
α-Adrenoceptors are classified into two main subtypes: α1 and α2. The α1 adrenoceptors, which are found on postsynaptic...
Adrenergic Receptors: ɑ Subtype
Adrenaline ≥ Noradrenaline >> Isoprenaline
α-adrenoceptors are further divided into α1 and α2-adrenoceptors.
α1-Adrenoceptors: These receptors are located postsynaptically on the effector organs and cause constriction of smooth muscle mediated by activation of phospholipase C—inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate...
Adrenergic Receptors: β Subtype
Isoprenaline > Adrenaline > Noradrenaline
Neurotransmitter binding to these receptors causes activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased concentrations of cAMP and modulation of calcium ion channels within the cell. They are further classified into β1, β2, and β3 subtypes.
β1-adrenoceptors: β1-adrenoceptors have equal affinities for...
Adrenergic Agonists: Direct-Acting Agents
These agents can be classified...
Adrenergic Agonists: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
Aromatic ring substitutions: Substituting the aromatic ring with –OH groups at positions 3 and 4 yields catecholamines (e.g., epinephrine), which have a high affinity for adrenoceptors. Hydrogen bonding between –OH groups and receptors enhances adrenergic activity.
Separation of the aromatic...
Adrenergic Antagonists: Chemistry and Classification of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
Nonselective α-blockers: Nonselective α-blockers contain haloalkylamine or imidazoline moieties. Phenoxybenzamine, with a haloalkylamine...

