Inhibitory neurotransmitter

Inhibitory neurotransmitter is a type of neurotransmitter that reduces the likelihood of generating an action potential in the neuron to which it is applied. They are essential for the normal functioning of the human nervous system. The most common inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain are gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine.

Function

Inhibitory neurotransmitters function by binding to specific receptors on the neuron's cell membrane. This binding opens channels in the membrane, allowing negatively charged ions to enter the cell. This influx of negative ions makes the inside of the cell more negative, or hyperpolarized, which makes it less likely that the neuron will fire an action potential.

Types of Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It works by binding to GABA receptors on neurons, which opens channels in the neuron's membrane and allows negatively charged chloride ions to enter the cell. This influx of negative ions hyperpolarizes the cell, making it less likely to fire an action potential.

Glycine

Glycine is another inhibitory neurotransmitter found primarily in the spinal cord and brainstem. Like GABA, glycine works by opening channels in the neuron's membrane and allowing negatively charged ions to enter the cell. This hyperpolarizes the cell and makes it less likely to fire an action potential.

Clinical Significance

Imbalances in inhibitory neurotransmitters can lead to a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders. For example, a deficiency in GABA is thought to contribute to the symptoms of anxiety disorders and epilepsy. Similarly, abnormalities in glycine neurotransmission have been implicated in the development of schizophrenia.

See Also

• Excitatory neurotransmitter
• Neuron
• Neurotransmitter
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Glycine

Inhibitory neurotransmitter Resources
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