GABA
Chemical name:
γ-aminobutyric acid
Description
GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system (ahead of glycine). It comes from the degradation of glutamate.
GABA is naturally present in certain plants such as valerian or green tea.
In the brain, the neurotransmitter is present in the vesicles of pre-synaptic neurons. When the signal is given, the GABA contained in these vesicles is released. It then attaches to its receptor, located on the post-synaptic neuron. The receiver at the GABA then opens and allows chloride ions to enter this neuron (the post-synaptic one).
It is said that the pre- and post-synaptic neurons are synaptic. The GABA is involved in 30 to 40% of the brain's synapses.
As GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, it is used in the treatment of epilepsy.
The benefits
- Studies have shown that a diet rich in GABA has been shown to reduce memory and sleep disorders, as well as the symptoms of depression.
