Age and beta adrenoceptor-mediated function

Abstract

Beta adrenoceptor-mediated responsiveness to isoproterenol was compared in young and old subjects using the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP) by lymphocytes as an index. The mean log dose-response curve for the elderly group was displaced to the right and the mean maximum response was less than that for the young subjects. The results corroborate evidence of a decreased response to isoproterenol-induced increases in heart rate in the elderly and raise the possibility of a generalized decrease in beta adrenoceptor-mediated functions in old age.