gamma-aminobutyric acid

[gam-uh uh-mee-noh-byoo-tir-ik, -am-uh-noh-]

noun

1. GABA.

gamma-aminobutyric acid

/ ˌɡæməəˌmiːnəuːbjʊˈtɪrɪk /

noun

1. the full name for GABA

gamma-aminobutyric acid

1. 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 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of gamma-aminobutyric acid¹

First recorded in 1960–65; amino- + butyric acid

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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One reason: In the brain, alcohol acts on gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits impulses between nerve cells and has a calming effect.

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Nature’s Bounty, a wellness company, promises a way for its customers to “find peace” in new ads for Stress Comfort gummies, which include ingredients such as gamma-aminobutyric acid, melatonin and lavender extract.

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Zenify creator Adam Rosenfeld formulated his drink with L-Theanine and gamma-Aminobutyric acid, or GABA, another amino acid that has been found to inhibit anxiety.

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Two of the most important ones are glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid, or Gaba.

Read more on The Guardian