Sex differences in alpha-adrenergic support of blood pressure.
We tested whether the inter-individual variability in alpha-adrenergic support of blood pressure plays a critical role in the sex differences in tonic support of blood pressure by the autonomic nervous system. Blockade of the alpha-adrenergic receptors was achieved via phentolamine and showed a smaller (P < 0.05) decrease in blood pressure in women compared to men, implying that alpha-adrenergic support of blood pressure is less in women than in men.
Schmitt
Judith A M
JA
Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Joyner
Michael J
MJ
Charkoudian
Nisha
N
Wallin
B Gunnar
BG
Hart
Emma C
EC
D018663:Adrenergic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000328:Adult; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010646:Phentolamine / Q000494:pharmacology; D012737:Sex Factors
D018663:Adrenergic Agents; D010646:Phentolamine