GABA stands for Gamma-aminobutyric acid (γ-Aminobutyric Acid) and is a nonessential protein amino acid. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
In the brain, GABA is produced from glutamate in a single decarboxylation reaction. Isoforms of glutamic acid decarbocylase, the enzyme used for conversion, are expressed in tissues other than the brain, where they play a role in diseases of autoimmune character, including neurological disorders and insulin-dependent diabetes.
Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers used by neurons to communicate with one another and with other types of cells. Every neurotransmitter behaves differently; inhibitory neurotransmitters tend to calm, while excitatory neurotransmitters tend stimulate the brain.
GABA’s primary function:
GABA’s primary function as the brain’s major inhibitory neurotransmitter is to prevent overstimulation. It does this by counteracting glutamate—the brain’s major excitatory neurotransmitter. When GABA binds to a receptor, it prevents stimulation by glutamate. When GABA levels are inadequate, overstimulation due to high levels of glutamate can occur and lead to symptoms of low GABA.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19058788
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21969419
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23861191
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23391588
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3327859/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23853635
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22207903
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16952998
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23522493
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11837891
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Every lab result you’ve ever had, charted and explained.
Healthmatters is a tracker for your lab results. Upload a report from any lab, any country — every marker charted and explained.
Start with my report →
All our content is backed by peer-reviewed studies, academic research, and trusted medical sources. We’re committed to accuracy and transparency — see our editorial policy for details.