PLATELET ALPHA-2-ADRENERGIC RECEPTOR-BINDING TO H-3 YOHIMBINE AND PERSONALITY VARIATIONS IN NORMALS

The authors examined platelet α2-adrenergic receptor binding to 3H-yohimbine and several personality variables in 58 adult males in a campus community. Subjects with high receptor Bmax levels exhibited personality traits of less social inhibition and more sensation seeking and thrill seeking behavior, were more playful and autonomous, and came from healthier, more intact families. The results also suggested that high affinity states of platelet α2-adrenergic receptors (low Kd) correlate with traits suggestive of stability, i.e., Autonomy, Dominance, Nurturance, Order, Succorance, and General Sensation Seeking Scale of Zuckerman, while low affinity states (high Kd) of platelet α2-receptors correlate with psychopathological traits of Defendence, Exhibitionism, and Paranoia. © 1990.