GPCR Function and Pathways

A type of adrenergic receptor that is coupled to a G protein (Gs) and increases cAMP levels.

A type of adrenergic receptor that is coupled to a G protein (Gi) and decreases cAMP levels.

Epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine are rapidly inactivated in the synapse by two enzymes: COMT and MAO.

The synthesis, storage, release, receptor interactions, and termination of action of neurotransmitters contribute to the overall action of autonomic drugs.

The process of generating or producing a substance (in this case, a neurotransmitter).

The process by which neurotransmitters are stored within vesicles, ready for release.

The process by which neurotransmitters are released from the presynaptic terminal into the synaptic cleft.

The interaction of neurotransmitters with their specific receptors on postsynaptic cells.

A type of adrenergic receptor that increases intracellular calcium levels (Ca2+) and activates signaling pathways involved in smooth muscle contraction and secretion. It primarily resides in smooth muscle and glands.

A type of adrenergic receptor that inhibits adenylate cyclase activity, reducing the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP). It primarily resides in nerve endings and some smooth muscle.

A type of adrenergic receptor that stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing cAMP levels. It primarily resides in cardiac muscle, renal juxtaglomerular apparatus, and nerve endings.

A type of adrenergic receptor that stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing cAMP levels. It primarily resides in smooth muscle, liver, and heart.

A type of adrenergic receptor that stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing cAMP levels. It primarily resides in adipose cells.

A type of adrenergic receptor that stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing cAMP levels. It primarily resides in renal vascular smooth muscle.

A protein that activates a signal transduction pathway when bound to a ligand. These proteins are typically linked to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).

A protein that is activated by a G protein and then acts to change intracellular processes, leading to a cellular response.

A class of receptors that respond to the neurotransmitters norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI).

A type of AR that increases intracellular calcium levels (Ca2+) and activates protein kinase C (PKC).

A type of AR that decreases cyclic AMP (cAMP) and reduces neuronal activity.

A type of AR that increases cAMP and has various effects, including increased heart rate, bronchodilation, and relaxation of smooth muscle.

A type of AR that increases cAMP, leading to relaxation of smooth muscle, primarily in the lungs and blood vessels.

A type of AR that increases cAMP and is involved in lipolysis in adipose tissue and relaxation of smooth muscle in the bladder.

Sympathetic nervous system (SNS) stimulation leads to "fight-or-flight" responses, preparing the body for action.

The SNS is part of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary bodily functions.

The main neurotransmitters of the SNS are norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI).

Drugs that mimic the actions of the SNS are called sympathomimetics.

Drugs that block the actions of the SNS are called sympatholytics.

Agonists are drugs that activate receptors, while antagonists block receptor activation.

Partial agonists only partially activate a receptor, unlike full agonists.

Drugs that act as agonists can stimulate the release, synthesis, or degradation of neurotransmitters.

Drugs that act as antagonists can inhibit the release, synthesis, or degradation of neurotransmitters.