2-Minute Neuroscience: GABA

[1:58]

In this video I discuss the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the human nervous system; its effects generally involve making neurons less likely to fire action potentials or release neurotransmitters. GABA acts at both ionotropic (GABAa) and metabotropic (GABAb) receptors, and its action is terminated by a transporter called the GABA transporter. Several drugs like alcohol and benzodiazepines cause increased GABA activity, which is associated with sedative effects.

[Video and text source: Neuroscientifically Challenged You Tube channel]