Gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor rho subunit (GABA_A-ρ receptor) (GABA_A-ρ receptor)

The **GABA_A-ρ receptor** (previously and incorrectly called the "GABA_C receptor") belongs to the family of ligand-gated ion channels and is a subtype of the GABA_A receptor family, distinguished by the presence of ρ (rho) subunits[2][7]. These receptors form homopentamers (five identical ρ subunits), are found primarily in retinal neurons, and mediate inhibitory neurotransmission by controlling a chloride ion channel in response to binding the neurotransmitter GABA. Due to their distinct structure and pharmacology, GABA_A-ρ receptors have unique physiological roles, particularly in visual processing. The term "GABA_C receptor" is obsolete, and the correct classification is under the GABA_A-ρ subfamily[2][7].

Other names

GABA_C receptor (obsolete)GABA_A-ρ receptorGABA-ρ receptor

Drugs act as agonists (activating the chloride channel and causing hyperpolarization); Antagonists block the action of GABA at the receptor and prevent chloride influx; Allosteric modulators (potentially affect receptor function at other binding sites)