Résumé : The biochemical characterization of the catecholamine β-adrenergic receptor from turkey erythrocyte membranes is rapidly progressing. The complex relationship with the adenylate cyclase and other membrane components which intervene in the hormonal stimulation of the cell is discussed in view of the effect of various ligands on the membrane-bound and affinity-purified receptor. © 1980 Elsevier/North-Holland Biomedical Prest. All rights reserved.