By using radioligand binding assay

the maximal binding capacity ( Bmax ) and irritability (KD) of receptors of the peripheral lymphocytes from 53 normotensives and 70 hypertensives aged from 38 to 94 years were measured. In the meanwhile

hemodynamic parameters were determined in a part of patients. It was shown that both Bmax and KD of the receptors of the lymphocytes in normotensive people did not change with aging and sex. However

the elderly hypertensive patients had a significantly lower Bmax than age-matched normal controls and middle-aged hypertensive patients. There were no significant linear correlation between adrenoceptor Bmax and hemodynamic parameters. Conclusion:The decreased density of p-adreno-ceptor may contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertension in the elderly

but It docs not play an important role