gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun

gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid ˌga-mə-ə-ˌmē-(ˌ)nō-byü-ˈtir-ik- 

ˌga-mə-ˌa-mə-(ˌ)nō-

: an amino acid C₄H₉NO₂ that is a neurotransmitter which induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

Examples of gamma-aminobutyric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Herbal teas like valerian root, lemon balm, and chamomile act on the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to facilitate and improve sleep quality. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 10 July 2024

This works as other general anesthetics work, acting on receptors in the brain—possibly the GABA [gamma-aminobutyric acid] receptors, because that is a mechanism for a lot of sleepiness in the brain. —Katherine Harmon, Scientific American, 3 Oct. 2011

Alcohol increases the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), for example. —Amanda MacMillan, Health, 26 Mar. 2024

For example, valerian may increase the amount or function of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter associated with sleep. —Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 11 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

gamma-aminobutyric acid

noun

gam·​ma-ami·​no·​bu·​tyr·​ic acid

variants also γ-aminobutyric acid

ˌgam-ə-ə-ˌmē-(ˌ)nō-byü-ˌtir-ik-, ˌgam-ə-ˌam-ə-(ˌ)nō- 

: an amino acid C₄H₉NO₂ that is a neurotransmitter that induces inhibition of postsynaptic neurons

called also GABA