Gaba a receptor
GABA A Receptor
The GABA A receptor (pronounced as "Gaba Aye receptor") is a type of protein that responds to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is the chief inhibitory compound in the mature vertebrate central nervous system.
Etymology
The term "GABA" is an acronym for Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid. The "A" in GABA A receptor denotes one of the several types of GABA receptors, distinguished by its specific pharmacology.
Function
GABA A receptors are ligand-gated ion channels. When GABA binds to a GABA A receptor, it causes the channel to open, allowing chloride ions to enter the neuron and inhibit the firing of new action potentials. This results in the sedative and anxiolytic effects that GABA is known for.
Structure
GABA A receptors are pentameric transmembrane receptors which consist of five subunits arranged around a central pore. There are numerous subunit isoforms for the GABA A receptor, which determine the receptor's ligand affinity, chance of opening, conductance, and other properties.
Related Terms
- GABA B receptor: Another type of GABA receptor that is not responsive to the typical GABA A receptor antagonists and has a different mechanism of action.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals used by nerve cells to send signals to other cells.
- Ion channel: Pore-forming proteins that help establish and control the small voltage gradient across the plasma membrane of cells by allowing the flow of ions down their electrochemical gradient.
- Gamma-aminobutyric acid: The chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system.
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