ß-Adrenoreceptors as Therapeutic Targets for Ocular Tumors and Other Eye Diseases-Historical Aspects and Nowadays Understanding.

ABSTRACT

ß-adrenoreceptors (ARs) are members of the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and are activated by catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine. Three subtypes of ß-ARs (ß1, ß2, and ß3) have been identified with different distributions among ocular tissues. Importantly, ß-ARs are an established target in the treatment of glaucoma. Moreover, ß-adrenergic signaling has been associated with the development and progression of various tumor types. Hence, ß-ARs are a potential therapeutic target for ocular neoplasms, such as ocular hemangioma and uveal melanoma. This review aims to discuss the expression and function of individual ß-AR subtypes in ocular structures, as well as their role in the treatment of ocular diseases, including ocular tumors.