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Review
. 2012 Oct;36(9):2044-55.
doi: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2012.07.005. Epub 2012 Jul 25.

GABA system dysfunction in autism and related disorders: from synapse to symptoms

Suzanne Coghlan  1 , Jamie Horder, Becky Inkster, M Andreina Mendez, Declan G Murphy, David J Nutt
Affiliations
Review

GABA system dysfunction in autism and related disorders: from synapse to symptoms

Suzanne Coghlan et al. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2012 Oct.

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental syndromes characterised by repetitive behaviours and restricted interests, impairments in social behaviour and relations, and in language and communication. These symptoms are also observed in a number of developmental disorders of known origin, including Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Foetal Anticonvulsant Syndrome. While these conditions have diverse etiologies, and poorly understood pathologies, emerging evidence suggests that they may all be linked to dysfunction in particular aspects of GABAergic inhibitory signalling in the brain. We review evidence from genetics, molecular neurobiology and systems neuroscience relating to the role of GABA in these conditions. We conclude by discussing how these deficits may relate to the specific symptoms observed.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
A simplified illustration of the major synaptic pathways responsible for GABA synthesis, breakdown, release and reuptake. Abbreviations: gaba = gamma-aminobutyric acid; glu = glutamate; gln = glutamine. GLNase = glutaminase. GAD = glutamate decarboxylase. GABA-T = GABA transaminase. VIAAT = vesicular inhibitory amino acid transporter. GAT = GABA transporter. GABA-A = GABAA receptor (note: there are numerous subtypes of this receptor, but these are not shown, for simplicity.) GS = glutamine synthetase. Not pictured: GABAB receptors; GABAA or GABAB autoreceptors.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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