Gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunit beta-3 (GABRB3)

Gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunit beta-3 (GABRB3) is a protein subunit that forms part of the GABAA receptor complex, a major inhibitory neurotransmitter receptor in the brain. It is a ligand-gated chloride channel subunit. GABRB3 contributes to the binding site for GABA and is part of the channel pore. It plays a critical role in brain development, including cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation, and mediates inhibitory neurotransmission in mature neurons. GABRB3 function is regulated by phosphorylation (e.g., by PKA) and gene expression (e.g., by MECP2). GABAA receptors containing the beta-3 subunit are modulated by substances like intravenous anesthetics and zinc ions. Mutations in the GABRB3 gene, located on chromosome 15, have been implicated in various neurological disorders due to effects on receptor current amplitude, kinetics, and inhibitory properties. The crystal structure of a beta-3 homopentamer has been determined, providing insight into its function and therapeutic potential.

Modulation of GABAA receptor channel activity, potentially via binding at the alpha-beta interface or allosterically.