Reviews of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Volume 82

a fraction of the receptors and determine whether full response can still be obtained. Using this technique, Nickersen was able to show that the blocking of 99% of the histamine receptors by an irreversible blocker shifts the dose-response curve with respect to the histamine agonist to higher concentrations but does not reduce the maximal response. ## X. Conclusion In the last few years the characterization of catecholamine receptors has developed considerably. The primary biochemical signals occurring subsequent to catecholamine binding are better understood today than a few years ago. Specific ligands can now be used to monitor catecholamine receptors both in vitro and in vivo. This applies especially to the field of #-adrenergic receptors. Even attempts to solubilize and affinity label the #-adrenergic receptor have met with initial success. It is to be expected that within a few years the mechanism of #-receptor activity will be understood more fully and that further progress will be made in the field of a-adrenergic and dopamine receptors. References Catecholamine receptors....Pages 1-26 The synthesis and secretion of albumin....Pages 27-95 Gating currents and charge movements in excitable membranes....Pages 96-190