Beta-adrenergic modulation of the alpha 2-acute phase globulin blood level in rats.

The acute phase response can be modulated by glucocorticoids and catecholamines as well. We treated Wistar rats with either epinephrine or different selective or non-selective beta-agonists in combination with beta-antagonists. The alpha 2-acute phase globulin (alpha 2-APG) serum concentrations were examined by means of electroimmunodiffusion 24 hours after drug administration. Isoprenaline, epinephrine and the beta 2-selective clenbuterol cause a dose-dependent increase in alpha 2-APG serum concentration. The increase can be inhibited by propranolol as a non-selective beta-receptor blocking agent. beta 1-antagonist talinolol has no effect on the alpha 2-APG serum level. The dose-response curve of isoprenaline is shifted to the right and that of clenbuterol is additionally depressed after treatment with propranolol. According to the alpha 2-APG level the results indicate a beta 2-receptor mediated epinephrine action.