Hippocampal GABA transporter function in temporal-lobe epilepsy
Article Abstract:
Electrophysiological studies show that the decrease in the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) present in the temporal lobe of humans is because of a decrease in the number of GABA transporters which affects the release of GABA. In the epileptogenic hippocampi, the potassium-stimulated release of GABA increases while the glutamate-induced, calcium-independent release of GABA decreases. However, the number of GABA containing cells and receptors in the neurons of the epileptogenic hippocampi is the same as that in normal neurons. GABA is probably necessary to mediate synaptic transmission and decreases are linked to epileptic seizures.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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Time to get excited by GABA
Article Abstract:
Evidence is emerging that y-aminobutyric acid (GABA) can act as an excitatory transmitter. Research has shown that mature neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus can be excited by GABA through a mechanism which is dependent on GABAa. There is as yet limited understanding about the frequency of the action of GABA as an excitatory transmitter, but there is a precedent for time-dependent changes in its effects. It is possible to assume that knowledge relating to the physiological role of GABA-mediated synaptic transmission in the SCN will assist in understanding circadian phenomena in mammals.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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Taking up GABA again
Article Abstract:
Studies conducted on the role of the neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) show that the amount of GABA in the hippocampus affected by epilepsy is less than in the normal hippocampus. The number of neurons which contain GABA and GABA receptors are unaffected in the affected temporal lobe but the number of GABA transporters are less. In the epileptic hippocampus, the release of GABA is mainly vesicular and the non-vesicular release decreases compared to a normal hippocampus. Inhibition of GABA activity causes epileptic seizures.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
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