[Expression and regulation of GABA receptors in the brain]

Abstract

GABA receptors are classified into two receptor subtypes: GABAA and GABAB receptors. The GABAA receptor, one of the ionotropic type receptors, is formed by various subunits (alpha, beta, gamma and delta subunits) and constitutes the GABA-gated Cl- channel. The different combinations of these subunits are known to produce functionally heterogeneous GABAA receptors both pharmacologically and physiologically. On the other hand, GABAB receptor is known to be metabotropic type which is negatively coupled with adenylate cyclase and inositol phosphate turnover systems via inhibitory GTP binding protein.