Polymorphisms of β-adrenergic receptors in heart failure
SB Liggett - The American journal of medicine, 2004 - amjmed.com
In this month's issue of the Journal, Forleo et al (1) report on an association between several
ß-adrenergic receptor polymorphisms and the progression of heart failure. The normal
physiologic response to failing ventricular function is an increase in local and systemic
catecholamines, which act on cardiac ß-adrenergic receptors to enhance cardiac output by
increasing rate and contractility. Over the long haul, this homeostatic response sets up a
vicious cycle because such persistent stimulation cannot be tolerated by the already …
ß-adrenergic receptor polymorphisms and the progression of heart failure. The normal
physiologic response to failing ventricular function is an increase in local and systemic
catecholamines, which act on cardiac ß-adrenergic receptors to enhance cardiac output by
increasing rate and contractility. Over the long haul, this homeostatic response sets up a
vicious cycle because such persistent stimulation cannot be tolerated by the already …