alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, member of the class A family of seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptors
The alpha-1 adrenergic receptors (or adrenoceptors) are a subfamily of the class A rhodopsin-like GPCRs that share a common architecture of seven transmembrane helices. This subfamily consists of three highly homologous receptor subtypes that primarily mediate smooth muscle contraction: alpha-1A, alpha-1B, and alpha-1D. Activation of alpha-1 receptors by catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine couples to the G(q) protein, which then activates the phospholipase C pathway, leading to an increase in IP3 and calcium. Consequently, the elevation of intracellular calcium concentration leads to vasoconstriction in smooth muscle of blood vessels. In addition, activation of alpha-1 receptors by phenylpropanolamine (PPA) produces anorexia and may induce appetite suppression in rats.
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