Holistic Health Encyclopedia home A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O
P Q R S T U V W X Y Z gamma aminobenzoic acid or gamma
aminobutyric acid - A non-essential amino acid which functions
as an inhibitory calming neurotransmitter in your brain.. GABA
receptors are part of the brain's neuro-inhibitory pathway. When
activated, these receptors help hyperpolarize the nerve cell
membranes by allowing chloride ions to enter the cell or
potassium ions to exit. This hyperpolarization of the cell
inhibits nerve It is found in high concentrations only in your
brain & eyes. It can be derived from protein foods or
manufactured in your body from glutamic acid. GABA is usually
deficient in both clinical & experimentally induced seizures.
Low levels of GABA promote excitatory neurotransmitters. Low
GABA levels have been found in the brains of patients with
multiple sclerosis, action tremors, tardive dyskinesia, & other
disorders of movement. Low GABA levels have been found in panic,
anxiety, depression, alcoholism, & bipolar diso