Alpha(1)-adrenoceptors (alpha(1)-AR) and vascular smooth muscle cell growth.

Abstract

Background: Smooth muscle cells in vascular tissue, like tissue within the urogenital sinus, undergo growth and proliferation.

Methods: This review attempts to compare and contrast the mechanisms and controlling factors involved in prostatic and vascular tissue. There is a particular focus on the role of catecholamines and alpha-adrenoceptors (alpha-ARs), and on the effects of alpha(1)-AR antagonists (blockers) on cellular dynamics. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The situation in vascular tissue appears analagous to that in prostatic tissue. Certain AR-antagonists, in addition to altering smooth muscle contraction, may have other actions on cellular dynamics.