Demonstration of Beta Adrenergic Receptors in the Rabbit Oviduct

Abstract

The rabbit oviductal isthmus was examined, <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i>, for the presence of beta adrenergic receptor activity. Epinephrine, ethyl norepinephrine, and isoproterenol were employed as adrenergic agonists. Alpha and beta adrenergic receptor blockades were induced with phentolamine and propranolol respectively. Beta activity was consistently demonstrated in progesterone treated animals. Estrus animals demonstrated variable beta activity. These results suggest that progesterone pretreatment enhances beta receptor activity in the rabbit oviduct.