Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid A Receptor Alpha 3 (gABRa3)

GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain where it acts at GABA-A receptors, which are ligand-gated chloride channels. Chloride conductance of these channels can be modulated by agents such as benzodiazepines that bind to the GABA-A receptor. At least 16 distinct subunits of GABA-A receptors have been identified.

Recent research has produced several ligands which are moderately selective for GABA_A receptors containing the α₃ subunit. Subtype-selective agonists for GABRa3 anxiolytic and mild sedative effects, but without causing amnesia or ataxia, which could make them superior to currently marketed drugs.