GABA Flashcards
1
Q
GABA stands for
A
gamma-aminobutyric acid
2
Q
GABA is
A
an inhibitory NT
3
Q
Where is GABA
A
There’s a widespread distribution in the brain
4
Q
What would happen without GABA?
A
without inhibitory synapses brain would become unstable
- neurons would excite neighbors who would excite their neighbors eventually exciting the original neuron
- eventually most neurons of the brain would be firing uncontrollably
- this is what a seizure is – epilepsy
5
Q
GABA binding sites at synapses
A
At least 5, and 2 acts via receptors: GABA site Benzodiazepine site Barbiturates Steroid binding site Picrotoxin binding site
6
Q
Agonists
A
producing relaxation and sedation: ETOH, benzo, and barbs
7
Q
What is not known?
A
It is not known if the brain produces a ligand that is an agonist that naturally produces this same effect
8
Q
What are the antagonist effects?
A
fear, anxiety, tension - possibly serves a protective function in times of danger
