Adrenergic receptors in premenstrual dysphoric disorder:: I.: Platelet α2 receptors:: Gi protein coupling, phase of menstrual cycle, and prediction of luteal phase symptom severity

Background: Abnormal alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor (AR) function is implicated in anxiety and depressive disorders. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is characterized by anxiety and depressive symptoms, which may be associated with changes in alpha(2)AR function. Previous studies on alpha(2)AR function during phases of the menstrual cycle in controls and PMDD patients are inconsistent, Methods: alpha(2)AR function was examined in 16 PMDD patients and 15 controls during the follicular phase, and in 10 PMDD patients during late luteal phase, Antagonist-measured maximum binding capacity, agonist-measured receptor density in high- and low-conformational states, and agonist affinity to both states were measured. Coupling efficiency to G(i) protein was estimated. Results: There were no significant differences in coupling efficiency PMDD patients had significantly low antagonist affinity; there were no differences in other binding parameters. There were no changes in alpha(2)AR binding parameters between phases of menstrual cycle in PMDD women. alpha(2)AR density and symptom severity were inversely related during the follicular phase in controls and patients, During luteal phase, alpha(2)AR density correlated positively,vith symptom severity in patients. High follicular alpha(2)AR density predicted more severe luteal symptoms in PMDD patients. Conclusions: These findings are discussed in view of the molecular biology of alpha(2)AR, and their role in PMDD, anxiety, and depressive disorders. Published 1998 Society Biological Psychiatry.