Intermediate
Technical
IVT
GABA
Pronunciation: GAH-ba
Also written as: GABA — gamma-aminobutyric acid
The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
Full Definition
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, counterbalancing excitatory signals and maintaining neural stability. GABA binds to GABA-A and GABA-B receptors, causing hyperpolarization of postsynaptic neurons and reducing their likelihood of firing. Dysfunction in GABAergic signaling is implicated in epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and other neurological conditions, making GABA receptors important targets for therapeutic intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Always use all capitals; spell out on first mention in patient materials.
In Context
- "Benzodiazepines enhance GABA neurotransmission to produce anxiolytic effects." — pharmacology review
- "Reduced GABA levels were observed in the epileptic focus during seizure activity." — clinical study
Also known as
gamma-aminobutyric acid
Contrasted with
glutamate
Don't confuse with
GABAA
GABAB