Arthropod GABA-gated chloride channel and Arthropod glutamate-gated chloride channel (None standardized; sometimes referred to as "GABA receptor (Rdl)" and "GluCl" in literature)

Arthropod GABA-gated and glutamate-gated chloride channels are ligand-gated ion channels from the Cys-loop receptor superfamily found in invertebrate species such as insects and nematodes. These receptors mediate neuronal inhibition: when activated by neurotransmitters (GABA or glutamate, respectively), they open to allow chloride ions to flow into the neuron, causing hyperpolarization and reducing neuronal excitability. They are medically and agriculturally important as therapeutic and pest control targets: macrocyclic lactones like ivermectin activate GluCl, causing paralysis in parasites, while insecticides like fipronil block the GABA receptor, causing hyperexcitation and death of invertebrates. These channels are structurally related to mammalian glycine and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, typically forming pentameric assemblies with distinct subunit compositions. Selectivity for arthropod targets and resistance through receptor mutations are critical issues in drug and pesticide applications.

Other names

GABA receptor (Rdl, for "Resistant to dieldrin") (for GABA-gated chloride channel)GluCl (for glutamate-gated chloride channel)Ligand-gated chloride channelInsect GABA receptorInsect glutamate receptor

Agonists (e.g., ivermectin) open the chloride channel, leading to hyperpolarization and inhibition of neuronal firing. Antagonists/blockers (e.g., fipronil, picrotoxinin) block chloride influx, causing neuronal hyperexcitability and paralysis.