Gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunit alpha-2 is a protein in humans that is encoded by the GABRA2 gene.[4]
GABRA2 is an alpha subunit that is part of GABA-A receptors, which are ligand-gated chloride channels and are activated by the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain, GABA. Chloride conductance of these channels can be modulated by agents, such as benzodiazepines (psychoactive drugs) that bind to the GABA-A receptor.
GABA-A receptors are composed of two alpha, two beta, and one gamma subunits. They have at least 16 distinct subunits identified, including GABRA2.[5] This receptor is found mainly in specific regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus.[6]
Subunit isoforms are seen around in various locations in the brain throughout growth. The combination of subunits has a large effect on the pharmacological and biophysical characteristics.[7] GABRA2 has been found to mediate anxiolytic activity, which plays a key role in emotional and behavioral control. Most GABRA2 modifications have been found to be linked to alcoholism and adolescent behavior.
- ^ a b c GRCh38: Ensembl release 89: ENSG00000151834 – Ensembl, May 2017
- ^ "Human PubMed Reference:". National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- ^ "Mouse PubMed Reference:". National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- ^ "GABRA2 gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor alpha2 subunit [Homo sapiens (human)]". Gene - NCBI.
- ^ "Entrez Gene: GABRA2 gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor, alpha 2".
- ^ Hanns S, Möhler H (2007). The GABA Receptor. New York: Humana Press. pp. 23–31, 69–87, 87–111. ISBN 978-1-59745-465-0.
- ^ Enoch MA (July 2008). "The role of GABA(A) receptors in the development of alcoholism". Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. New Insights Into the Function of GABAA Receptor Subtypes. 90 (1): 95–104. doi:10.1016/j.pbb.2008.03.007. PMC 2577853. PMID 18440057.