title: Beta-adrenergic receptors in human leukocyte subpopulations.
abstract: beta 2-Adrenergic receptors, which are encoded on chromosome 5q32-34, belong to the group of G-protein-linked hormone receptors with seven transmembrane domains. Upon agonist binding, adenylate cyclase is activated. Although the function of human leukocyte beta-adrenergic receptors is unknown, these cells are often used as a model system to study tissue beta-adrenergic receptors. In intact mononuclear leukocytes or membrane preparations, 1000-3000 beta 2-adrenergic receptors are found, having an antagonist affinity constant (KD) in the range of 25 pM. beta-Adrenergic receptor numbers are different in leukocyte subsets, with receptor density higher in B than in T cells. CD56+ or CD57+ natural killer cells express more receptors than CD8+ or CD4+ cells. KD is higher in CD8+ than in CD4+ cells. Acute sympathetic activation by isoproterenol infusion or short-lasting exercise leads to an increased number of mononuclear beta-adrenergic receptors with a slightly reduced proportion of those with high agonist affinity. Acute sympathetic activation by adrenaline infusion, short-term exercise, or psychological stress also causes a selective increase in circulating CD56+ or CD57+ lymphocytes which are rich in beta-adrenergic receptors. The results of several studies suggest that adrenaline-induced changes in beta-adrenergic receptors and the redistribution of leukocyte subsets may be linked. beta-Adrenergic receptors may mediate immuno-modulatory effects by causing selective cell mobilization.
authors.affiliation: Department of Research, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Landmann
mesh_terms: D002395:Catecholamines / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D007963:Leukocytes, Mononuclear / Q000378:metabolism; D016131:Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000378:metabolism; D009000:Monocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D015213:Neuroimmunomodulation / Q000502:physiology; D011943:Receptors, Adrenergic, beta / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D002395:Catecholamines; D011943:Receptors, Adrenergic, beta