Adrenergic receptors are found in many different types of tissues and they generate different cellular responses to the hormone, epinephrine. Epinephrine is produced in the adrenal glands, and it is also known as adrenaline. These receptors are classified according to their agonists and antagonists. They are either a or b and these are further classified as type 1 or 2. So, there are four major types of adrenergic receptors: a1, a2, b1 and b2. These receptors are classified according to their agonists and antagonists. (What is an antagonist? What is an agonist?)
This is your mission: For each type of receptor a1, a2, b1 and b2, give an example of an antagonist and an agonist. Also, give and example of a tissue where the receptor is found, and describe the end result of epinephrine binding to this receptor. Does the receptor function via a Gi, Gs, or Go protein? Describe this information in a brief narrative. If you find other links that are useful, please send the URL to koni@chem.csustan.edu.
By now, your adrenaline is probably flowing (so many receptors, so little time!), but don't rush through these links. Sorting out all of these receptors and what they do, will take some time on your part.
Links:
Family Practice Notebook (tissues, actions, drugs):
University of Rochester: Toxicity of beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists (CE for specialists is poison information)
A primary research paper: Stacie M Jones , F Charles Hiller , Sandie E Jacobi , Susan K Foreman , Laura M Pittman and Lawrence E Cornett, Enhanced β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) signaling by adeno-associated viral (AAV)-mediated gene transfer, BMC Pharmacology 2003, 3:15
Alexander Binder, "The Adrenergic system" (small print, but lots of good information!) Be sure to follow the "Next" links at the bottom of each page.
This extra credit assignment (if only we did things for the joy of learning!) is worth up to 20 points. The 20 points version is a very comprehensive and thorough discussion. The "average" completed mission will be worth 10 points. Please submit it electronically, as the best stuff will be published on the course web page. This is due before the next exam.