An alpha-adrenergic receptor belongs to the alpha branch of adrenergic receptors, divided into alpha-1 adrenergic receptors and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The branches differ in their common G-protein coupling and intracellular signals. Grouping them as alpha receptors identifies related pharmacology, but does not mean that all produce the same response or activate the same messenger pathway. [ref]
Pharmacological Characterizations of Adrenergic Receptors in Human Adipocytes by Thomas W. Burns and others. alpha-adrenergic responses and receptor-selective pharmacology
An alpha-1 adrenergic receptor is an adrenergic receptor commonly coupled to Gq-family signalling. Activation can stimulate phospholipase C, generating inositol trisphosphate and diacylglycerol, with subsequent changes in intracellular calcium and kinase activity. In smooth muscle, this can contribute to contraction. Coupling describes a common mechanism rather than a guarantee of an identical response in every cellular context. [ref]
Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edition by Bruce Alberts and others. Chapter 15, G-Protein-Linked Cell-Surface Receptors: phospholipase-C signalling
An alpha-2 adrenergic receptor is an adrenergic receptor commonly coupled to inhibitory Gi-family signalling. It can reduce adenylyl cyclase activity and alter ion-channel regulation. Presynaptic receptors can participate in feedback control of transmitter release, while receptors in other tissues have additional roles. Its effects therefore differ from the common Gq-linked signalling of an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor. [ref]
Pharmacological Characterizations of Adrenergic Receptors in Human Adipocytes by Thomas W. Burns and others. inhibitory alpha-adrenergic control of adipocyte responses
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