GABA

[ gab-uh ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

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

GABA

/ ˈɡæbə /

acronym for

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

Neurons that extend to structures deep in the brain were excited by acetylcholine while neurons that extend to structures on the surface of the brain were inhibited by GABA.

From Science Daily

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.

From Science Magazine

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.

From BBC

Others generate a chemical called GABA, deficits of which are linked to depression.

From Washington Post

And these patients typically received anesthetic drugs that mimic GABA.

From New York Times