Review article: beta 3-adrenoceptor agonists--future anti-inflammatory drugs for the gastrointestinal tract?

The beta 3-adrenoceptor is now a recognized sub-type of beta-adrenoceptor and is the principle adrenoceptor responsible for lipolysis in rat adipocytes. The receptor is also found in the gastrointestinal tract where beta 3-adrenoceptor agonists are both spasmolytic and potent inhibitors of experimental non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric and small intestinal ulcers. There is evidence to suggest that the underlying mechanism of protection involves enhancement of mucosal blood flow, possibly as a result of relaxation of vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle. This review examines some possible therapeutic applications for beta 3-adrenoceptor agonists in ulcero-inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract where an altered blood flow state is a component of the underlying pathogenic process.