Reduction in cortical beta adrenergic receptor density after chronic intermittent food deprivation.

The effect of chronic intermittent food deprivation on beta adrenergic receptor binding in the rat brain was studied. Rats subjected to six 48 h fasts given over a period of 3 weeks demonstrated a reduction in the density of beta adrenergic receptors in the cerebral cortex but not in the hypothalamus or lower brainstem. This receptor alteration did not occur after one 48 h fast. This effect of chronic food deprivation is shared by several other forms of repeated stress, suggesting that it is a general mechanism of adaptation.