Beta 2 adrenergic receptor (β2-AR)-agonists, widely used as bronchodilators, have demonstrated wide-spectrum anti-inflammatory properties in both immune and non-immune cells in various tissues. Their anti-inflammatory properties are mediated primarily, but not exclusively, via activation of the canonical β2-AR signaling pathway (β2-AR/cAMP/PKA). As non-canonical β2-AR signaling also occurs, several inconsistent findings on the anti-inflammatory effect of β2-agonists are notably present. Increasing amounts of evidence have unveiled the alternative mechanisms of the β2-AR agonists in protecting the tissues against injuries, i.e., by augmenting mitochondria biogenesis and SIRT1 activity, and by attenuating fibrotic signaling. This review mainly covers the basic mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of β2-AR activation along with its limitations. Specifically, we summarized the role of β2-AR signaling in regulating kidney function and in mediating the progression of acute and chronic kidney diseases. Given their versatile protective effects, β2-agonists can be a promising avenue in the treatment of kidney diseases.
Keywords: Cyclic AMP; GPCR; Inflammation; Kidney diseases; β2-Adrenergic receptors; β2-Agonist.