GABA

GABA, also known as gamma-aminobutyric acid or γ-aminobutyric acid, is the chief inhibitoryneurotransmitter in the developmentally mature mammaliancentral nervous system. Its principal role is reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system.

GABA is sold as a dietary supplement in many countries. It has been traditionally thought that exogenous GABA (i.e., taken as a supplement) does not cross the blood–brain barrier, but data obtained from more recent research (2010s) in rats describes the notion as being unclear.

The carboxylate form of GABA is γ-aminobutyrate.