Gamma-aminobutyric acid transporter 3 (GAT-3)

Gamma-aminobutyric acid transporter 3 (GAT-3, SLC6A11) is a sodium- and chloride-dependent membrane transporter primarily expressed in astrocytic processes throughout the brain, notably in the cerebral cortex and globus pallidus[2][1][7]. It mediates high-affinity uptake of GABA—the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system—removing GABA from the synaptic cleft and thus regulating both the magnitude and duration of inhibitory neurotransmission[1][2][4][7]. By rapidly clearing GABA, GAT-3 helps maintain synaptic precision and prevent spillover-mediated tonic inhibition. Differential regional expression and selective function in glia distinguish GAT-3 from other GABA transporters. The transporter has been implicated in pathology, including alcohol dependence, and is an emerging target for neurological and addiction-related drug development[3][5].

Other names

GABA transporter type 3SLC6A11Sodium- and chloride-dependent GABA transporter 3

Reuptake blockade: Inhibitors increase extracellular GABA by blocking GAT-3-mediated reuptake into astrocytes[1][5] Enhanced GABAergic tone may decrease excitability in certain brain regions