Resources

List by Alphabet: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Beta-blocker

Beta-blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of medications commonly used to treat a variety of medical conditions, primarily related to the cardiovascular and nervous systems. These medications work by blocking the effects of the hormone adrenaline (epinephrine) and related compounds, which activate beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. By doing so, beta-blockers can have several therapeutic effects:

1. Cardiovascular Effects: Beta-blockers are often prescribed to manage heart conditions. They can reduce the heart rate, decrease the force of heart contractions, and lower blood pressure. These effects can be beneficial for individuals with hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), and congestive heart failure.

2. Anxiety and Performance: Beta-blockers can be used to manage symptoms of anxiety, particularly in situations where physical symptoms (e.g. trembling, rapid heartbeat) are a concern. They are sometimes prescribed for performance anxiety, such as before public speaking or musical performances, to help control the physiological manifestations of anxiety.

3. Migraine Prevention: Beta-blockers may be prescribed to prevent migraines in some individuals. Their mechanism of action in this context is not entirely understood, but they are thought to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

4. Glaucoma: In certain forms of glaucoma, beta-blocker eye drops are used to lower intraocular pressure by reducing the production of aqueous humor, the fluid in the eye. Lowering intraocular pressure can help prevent optic nerve damage.

5. Tremors: Beta-blockers are sometimes used to manage essential tremor, a neurological condition characterized by rhythmic shaking of the hands, head, and other body parts.

It's important to note that there are different types of beta-blockers, and each may have specific properties and indications. Common beta-blockers include propranolol, metoprolol, atenolol, and carvedilol. The choice of beta-blocker and its specific use depend on the individual's medical condition and overall health. These medications are typically available by prescription, and their use should be supervised by a healthcare provider. Discontinuing beta-blockers should be done under medical guidance, as abruptly stopping them can lead to adverse effects.

Related Service

• Related Publications: Downregulation of the β1 adrenergic receptor in the myocardium results in insensitivity to metoprolol and reduces blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats. (genscript.com)

Related Biology Tools

  • GenSmart™ Codon Optimization

    GenSmart Optimization is a free online tool for performing codon optimization to improve gene expression. GenScript's patented algorithms are integrated into the tool to optimize the computing capability of high-performance sequence generation.

    Learn More

  • DNA Construct Design Tool

    GenSmart™ Design is a free online DNA construct design tool developed by GenScript. GenSmart™ Design has two design modules, the Create Construct module for individual plasmid design and the Create Library module for DNA library design.

    Learn More

  • Codon Frequency Tables

    This online tool shows commonly used genetic codon frequency table in expression host organisms including Escherichia coli and other common host organisms.

    Learn More

Service and Products

Gene Synthesis

Offer gene synthesis of 100% sequence guarantee, free codon optimization, DNA synthesis in as fast as 4 days.

ORF cDNA Clones and Custom Clones

Largest commercial ORF clones database, 70,000 next-day shipping ORF clones.

Plasmid DNA Preparation

High quality plasmids supported by fully-automated platform, 100% full insert sequence accuracy guaranteed.

Express Cloning & Subcloning

$49 and 2 day turnaround, choose from over 150 IP FREE vectors.

Mutation and Library Services

Mutagenesis Portfolio offers several mutation and library services to meet various customers’ needs.

Oligo Synthesis

Bridge the gap between chemically synthesized oligos and bological applications.

If you know of any terms that have been omitted from this glossary that you feel would be useful to include, please send detail to the Editorial Office at GenScript: [email protected]

If your term is adopted, we will send 1,000 EzCoupon points to your GenScript account.