GABA

[gab-uh]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a neurotransmitter of the central nervous system that inhibits excitatory responses.

GABA

/ ˈɡæbə /

acronym

1. gamma-aminobutyric acid: a biologically active substance found in plants and in brain and other animal tissues; it is a neurotransmitter that inhibits activation of neurones

GABA

1. Abbreviation of gamma-aminobutyric acid

Word History and Origins

Origin of GABA¹

g(amma-)a(mino)b(utyric) a(cid)

Example Sentences

Normal human consciousness is tied to inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA.

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First, alcohol increases the action of a chemical messenger in the brain called GABA.

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They discovered that two types of neurons in the claustrum, which send output signals to different parts of the brain, respond in opposing ways to acetylcholine and GABA.

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High doses altered the shape of neuronal support cells called astrocytes and caused changes in gene expression that suggest disruptions to signaling by the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA.

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In Japan, you can already buy tomatoes rich in a chemical called GABA, which has a calming effect, and modified sea bream where more of the flesh is suitable for sushi.

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