Gamma-aminobutyric acid

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Gamma-aminobutyric acid

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (pronunciation: /ˈɡæmə əˌmiːnoʊbjuːˈtɪrɪk ˈæsɪd/), often abbreviated as GABA, is a naturally occurring amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter in your brain. Neurotransmitters function as chemical messengers. GABA is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter because it blocks, or inhibits, certain brain signals and decreases activity in your nervous system.

Etymology

The term "Gamma-aminobutyric acid" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of a butyric acid backbone where the amino group is attached to the gamma carbon atom. The term "GABA" is an acronym of the full name.

Related Terms

  • Neurotransmitter: A substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse.
  • Amino Acid: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins.
  • Nervous System: The network of nerve cells and fibers that transmits nerve signals between parts of the body.
  • Butyric Acid: A carboxylic acid found in rancid butter, parmesan cheese, and vomit, and has an unpleasant odor and acrid taste.
  • Synapse: A junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.

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