Adrenergic control of lipid metabolism

ABSTRACT Adrenergic receptors are ubiquitous and mediate several important effects involving lipid metabolism. Thus, β‐adrenergic stimulation increases lipolysis and inhibits the activity of the lipoprotein lipase. In contrast, α‐adrenergic stimulation inhibits fat cell lipid mobilisation. Unexpectedly, β‐adrenergic blockade increases plasma triglyceride levels and tends to lower the high density lipoprotein (HDL‐cholesterol). These effects seem to be prevented or attenuated by concomitant α‐blockade. Possible mechanisms for the adrenergic effect on lipid metabolism are reviewed.