Regulation of lipoprotein metabolism by adrenergic mechanisms.

The available data on the adrenergic influences on lipoprotein metabolism are reviewed. It is clear that the influences are complex. It appears that adrenergic stimuli act at multiple sites in the lipoprotein metabolic pathways. This explains in part, the confusion in interpreting the literature. Based on the effects of alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocker administration in animals and humans, it is clear that the net effect of alpha 1-receptor stimulation is a decrease in HDL cholesterol and an increase in LDL cholesterol and VLDL triglyceride. On the other hand, beta-receptor stimulation will result in a net reduction of LDL and an increase in HDL. Further studies to elucidate the exact mechanism of action by the adrenergic stimuli on lipoprotein metabolism should provide insights into the relationship between the adrenergic nervous system and atherosclerosis and an enhanced understanding of the mechanisms by which antihypertensive-adrenergic mechanisms--alpha 1-Inhibition--Atherosclerosis--Serum lipids.