Adrenergic receptors in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells

Abstract

Adrenergic receptors (AR) are essential regulators of vascular physiology and are largely used as pharmacological targets. This chapter will review the main roles of the vascular AR in both the endothelium and vascular smooth muscle. We will discuss the ability of ARs to regulate key functions in endothelial and smooth muscle cells and their involvement in several pathologic conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart failure.