Question

What is the purpose of the GABA neurotransmitter?

1) To inhibit or reduce the activity of neurons
2) To excite or increase the activity of neurons
3) To transmit sensory information between neurons
4) To regulate the release of other neurotransmitters

Answer 1

The GABA neurotransmitter mainly acts to inhibit neuronal activity, balancing excitation and inhibition in the brain through GABAA and GABAB receptors, and disruptions to this function are related to various disorders.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary purpose of the GABA neurotransmitter is to inhibit or reduce the activity of neurons (1). Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized from glutamate and acts by hyperpolarizing neurons, which makes them less likely to fire action potentials. GABA achieves its inhibitory effect through interaction with GABA receptors, which include ionotropic GABAA and metabotropic GABAB receptors. These receptors cause the influx of negative chloride ions or the opening of potassium channels leading to cell hyperpolarization. GABA neurotransmission is essential for maintaining the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, and disruptions to this balance are linked to various neuropsychiatric conditions.