Abstract
The use of quantitative coronary angiography, combined with Doppler and PET, has recently been directed at the study of α-adrenergic coronary vasomotion in humans. Confirming prior animal experiments, there is no evidence of α-adrenergic coronary constrictor tone at rest. Again confirming prior experiments, responses to α-adrenoceptor activation are augmented in the presence of coronary endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, involving both α1- and α2-adrenoceptors in epicardial conduit arteries and microvessels. Such augmented α-adrenergic coronary constriction is observed during exercise and coronary interventions, and it is powerful enough to induce myocardial ischemia and limit myocardial function. Recent studies indicate a genetic determination of α2-adrenergic coronary constriction.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 689-694 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Circulation |
Volume | 101 |
Issue number | 6 |
Publication status | Published - Feb 15 2000 |
Keywords
- Coronary disease
- Ischemia
- Microcirculation
- Nervous system
- Receptors, adrenergic, alpha
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physiology
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine