Gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)

Name	Gamma-aminobutyric acid
CAS number	56-12-2
Synonym	Aminalon; DF 468; DF468; DF-468; Mielogen; Mielomade; Gamma-aminobutyric acid
Description	Gamma-aminobutyric acid is an endogenous neurotransmitter and GABA receptor agonist involved in neuronal excitability, muscle tone, stem cell growth, brain development, and mood. It decrease incidence of anxiety and seizures.
Structure
Molecular Formula	C4H9NO2
Molecular Weight	103.121
Appearance	Solid powder
Quality Standard	USP, EP, BP, CP
Shipping Condition	Shipped under ambient temperature as non-hazardous chemical. This product is stable enough for a few weeks during ordinary shipping and time spent in Customs.
Storage Condition	Dry, dark and at 0 – 4 ℃ for short term (days to weeks) or -20 ℃ for long term (months to years).
Shelf Life	>2 years if stored properly
Sample package	Aluminium foil bag
Commercial package	Aluminium Tin, Fiber drum
Origin	China

GABA More Info

Definition and Role

γ -Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a crucial amino acid that functions as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals. It plays a vital role in reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system, thereby maintaining balance between excitation and inhibition in neuronal signaling35.

Synthesis and Mechanism

GABA is synthesized from glutamate through the action of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase, which requires vitamin B6 as a cofactor. Once synthesized, GABA is stored in synaptic vesicles and released into the synaptic cleft upon neuronal stimulation. It then binds to GABA receptors on the post-synaptic neuron, leading to hyperpolarization of the neuron and inhibition of action potentials34.

Types of GABA Receptors

There are two main types of GABA receptors:

GABA-A Receptors: These are ionotropic receptors that mediate fast synaptic inhibition by allowing chloride ions to flow into the neuron, resulting in hyperpolarization.

GABA-B Receptors: These are metabotropic receptors that mediate slower inhibitory effects through G-protein coupled mechanisms, increasing potassium conductance and decreasing calcium influx45.

Physiological Functions

GABA's primary function is to inhibit excessive neuronal firing, thus playing a critical role in various physiological processes such as:

Regulating Muscle Tone: By inhibiting motor neurons, GABA helps control muscle tension.

Modulating Anxiety and Stress Responses: GABA's inhibitory effects contribute to feelings of calmness and relaxation, making it a target for anxiolytic medications35.

Influencing Sleep Patterns: GABA is involved in promoting sleep by inhibiting wakefulness-promoting neurons.

Clinical Significance

Disruptions in GABA signaling are implicated in numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia. Many pharmacological treatments for these conditions aim to enhance GABAergic activity34.

Dietary Supplements

GABA is also available as a dietary supplement, although its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier has been debated. Recent studies suggest that while exogenous GABA may have some effects, its efficacy as a supplement remains uncertain5.

In summary, γ-Aminobutyric acid is essential for maintaining neural stability and plays diverse roles in both normal physiology and pathological conditions.