beta-adrenergic receptors


β-ad·re·ner·gic re·cep·tors

adrenergic receptors in effector tissues capable of selective activation and blockade by drugs; conceptually derived from the ability of certain agents, such as propranolol, to block only some adrenergic receptors and of other agents, such as isoproterenol, to activate only the same adrenergic receptors. Such receptors are designated as β-receptors. Their activation results in physiologic responses such as increases in cardiac rate and force of contraction (β1), and relaxation of bronchial and vascular smooth muscle (β2) contained in skeletal muscle.

β-ad·re·ner·gic re·cep·tors

(adrĕ-nĕrjik rĕ-septŏrz) Those in effector tissues capable of selective activation and blockade by drugs.