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Haemophilus influenzae and the β-adrenergic system: A review

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Abstract

Haemophilus influenzae is a bacterium that often can be isolated from the deeper respiratory airways of patients with chronic asthmatic bronchitis. In the present study the effects ofH. influenzae vaccination on guinea pig pulmonary β-adrenoceptor number and function (in vitro and in vivo) have been evaluated. Functioning of β-adrenoceptors is determined by measuring the β-mimetic effect of isoprenaline on the inhibition of anaphylactic mediator release and isolated tracheal strip relaxation. The number of β-adrenoceptor binding sites was measured by means of a3H-dihydroalprenolol binding assay.

Also the mechanism of action underlying the changes in β-adrenoceptor functioning was evaluated. Furthermore, it was established that the effect on the β-adrenoceptor system was not specific forH. influenzae and that other respiratory pathogens were also biologically active in this respect.

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  1. Institute for Veterinary Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, State University of Utrecht, Biltstraat 172, 3572 BP, Utrecht, The Netherlands

    A. J. M. Schreurs & F. P. Nijkamp

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  1. A. J. M. Schreurs
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Schreurs, A.J.M., Nijkamp, F.P. Haemophilus influenzae and the β-adrenergic system: A review. Vet Res Commun 8, 1–14 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02214689

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