Regulation of the beta-adrenergic receptor by methylation of membrane phospholipids

Abstract

Stimulation of the beta-adrenergic receptor increases the enzymatic methylation of membrane phospholipids. Increased synthesis of phosphatidyl-N-monomethylethanolamine by methyltransferase I increases fluidity and enhances the ability of the beta-adrenergic receptor to couple with adenylate cyclase. The number of beta-adrenergic receptors can be regulated by the rate of synthesis and of degradation of phosphatidylcholine formed by transmethylation.