GABA Synthesis Pathway

The GABA synthesis pathway refers to the biochemical processes responsible for producing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature mammalian central nervous system. This pathway is essential for regulating neuronal excitability and maintaining a balance between excitation and inhibition in neural circuits. The primary precursor for GABA synthesis is glutamate, converted to GABA by glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) using pyridoxal phosphate (vitamin B6) as a cofactor. The GABA shunt describes the closed-loop process involved in both producing and conserving GABA.

Other names

GABA shuntGamma-aminobutyric acid synthesis pathway

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