Alpha Receptors:

  • Generally found on smooth muscle cells.
  • Subtypes: α1 and α2.
  • α1 receptors primarily mediate smooth muscle contraction.
  • α2 receptors mostly inhibit neurotransmitter release, leading to relaxation of smooth muscle.

Beta Receptors:

  • Predominantly located on cardiac muscle cells and some smooth muscle cells.
  • Subtypes: β1, β2, and β3.
  • β1 receptors primarily stimulate cardiac muscle contraction and increase heart rate.
  • β2 receptors mainly induce smooth muscle relaxation, particularly in bronchi and blood vessels.