This gene encodes a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor. GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain where it acts at GABA-A receptors, which are ligand-gated chloride channels. Chloride conductance of these channels can be modulated by agents such as benzodiazepines that bind to the GABA-A receptor. GABA has been shown to activate both ionotropic (GABAA) and metabotropic (GABAB) receptors as well as a third class of receptors called GABAC. Both GABAA and GABAC are ligand-gated ion channels, however, they are structurally and functionally distinct.
