Gamma aminobutyric acid

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (often abbreviated as GABA) is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the developmentally mature mammalian central nervous system. Its principal role is reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. In humans, GABA is also directly responsible for the regulation of muscle tone.

Function

GABA is not just an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature brain, but also has a more primary developmental role in the formation of the nervous system. In the brain, GABA has a number of important functions, including:

• Reducing neuronal excitability
• Regulating muscle tone
• Playing a role in the development of the nervous system

Structure

GABA is a simple four-carbon structure. It is derived from the amino acid glutamate through the action of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase.

Role in Disease

Alterations in GABA function are implicated in a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, anxiety, and depression.

See Also

• Neurotransmitter
• Nervous system
• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Depression

References

Gamma aminobutyric acid Resources
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