[Function of lymphocyte beta-adrenergic receptor in depression].

Lymphocyte beta-adrenergic receptor function of 20 depressed patients and 18 healthy volunteers were measured using radioligand binding technique. It was found that the affinity and sensitivity of this receptor were significantly higher in endogenous depressed patients than those in normal controls. After the electro-acupuncture-treatment (EAT), lymphocyte beta-receptor function decreased in patients who responded well to EAT, but still not reached normal level.