What is a major effect of beta 1 stimulation by adrenaline?

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Stimulation of beta 1 receptors, primarily located in the heart, leads to various physiological responses. One of the major effects of adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) activating these receptors is an increase in heart rate, a phenomenon known as positive chronotropic effect. When adrenaline binds to beta 1 receptors, it causes the heart's pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial (SA) node to fire more rapidly, resulting in a faster heart rate.

This increase in heart rate is crucial during the 'fight or flight' response, where the body prepares to react to stress or danger by enhancing cardiac output, ensuring that more oxygenated blood reaches the tissues. This enhanced cardiac activity is essential for supporting physical exertion and maintaining energy levels during stressful situations.

In this context, the other choices do not accurately reflect the main effect of beta 1 stimulation. Vasodilation of peripheral blood vessels is more associated with beta 2 receptor stimulation, while a decrease in cardiac contractility and increased production of insulin are not primary responses to beta 1 activity, highlighting the importance of understanding the specific effects of different adrenergic receptor stimulation in the body.

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