Changes in platelet alpha2-adrenoceptors in human phaeochromocytoma

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Abstract
Summary In a 44 year-old male with a surgically proven phaeochromocytoma platelet α2-adrenoceptor density, determined by3H-yohimbine binding, was only 50% of that in an age-matched control group, and plasma catecholamines were elevated. Two weeks after removal of the tumour, platelet α2-adrenoceptor density and plasma catecholamines had become normal and were not significantly different from the controls. It is concluded that endogenous catecholamines may play an important role in regulation of α2-adrenoceptor density and hence tissue sensitivity to α-adrenergic stimulation in the human being.