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gamma-aminobutyric acid
[ gam-uh uh-mee-noh-byoo-tir-ik, -am-uh-noh- ]
gamma-aminobutyric acid
/ ˌɡæməəˌmiːnəuːbjʊˈtɪrɪk /
gamma-aminobutyric acid
/ găm′ə-ə-mē′nō-byo̅o̅-tîr′ĭk,-ăm′ə- /
- An amino acid occurring in the brain as a neurotransmitter that acts to inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses. Certain antianxiety drugs, called benzodiazepines, mimic the actions of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Chemical formula: C 4 H 9 NO 2 .
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Word History and Origins
Origin of gamma-aminobutyric acid1
First recorded in 1960–65; amino- + butyric acid
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