Excitatory effects of GABA in established brain networks

Trends Neurosci. 2005 Jun;28(6):284-9. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2005.04.003.

Abstract

Although GABA remains the predominant inhibitory neurotransmitter of the brain, there are numerous recent examples of excitatory actions of GABA. These actions can be classified in two broad categories: phasic excitatory effects, as follow single activation of GABAergic afferents, and sustained excitatory effects, as follow prolonged activation of GABA(A) receptors. Evidence reviewed here indicates that, contrary to common belief, these effects are not restricted to embryonic or neonatal preparations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / cytology
  • Brain / drug effects*
  • Brain / physiology
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Chloride Channels / drug effects
  • Chloride Channels / physiology
  • Chlorides / metabolism
  • Circadian Rhythm / drug effects
  • Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Nerve Net / drug effects*
  • Neurons / drug effects
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Synapses / drug effects*
  • Synapses / physiology
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / metabolism
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Chloride Channels
  • Chlorides
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
  • Calcium