CARDIOVASCULAR ENGINEERING Journal for Extracorporeal Circulation, Assist Devices,Transplantation and Artificial Organs
	Volume 2, 1997, No 3

Beta-Adrenoceptors in Cardiac Anesthesia and Intensive Care

M. Heesen

Abstract:
An impairment of the beta-adrenergic system, including changes of the number of receptors on the cell surface and of the receptor-associated G-proteins occurs in a variety of disorders. In heart failure, a down-regulation of the beta1-subtype of adrenoceptors, an increase in Gi-proteins, and an enhanced activity of the enzyme beta-adrenoceptor kinase which is envolved in receptor desensitization were found. Acute changes of this receptor system were reported in surgical patients often caused by stress-related increases of adrenergic hormones. To monitor short-term alterations of the beta-adrenergic system, several studies used lymphocytes as a model since these easily accessible cells bear beta2-receptors.

Keywords:
beta-adrenergic system, heart failure, surgical traumatization

Address for Correspondence:

Reference:
(CVE. 1997; 2 (3): 166-173)

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