The gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter system in the mammalian brain.
Understanding GABAergic neurotransmission is crucial for comprehending brain function and neurological disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
To investigate the regional distribution and asymmetry of GABAergic system components in the rat brain.
To examine the effects of inhibiting GABA catabolism on GABA levels and enzyme activities.
Main Methods:
Inhibition of GABA catabolism using intracisternal ethanolamine-O-sulphate and intraperitoneal aminooxyacetic acid in rats.
Measurement of GABA aminotransferase and glutamate decarboxylase activities.
Quantification of GABA content in various brain regions.
Main Results:
Both tested inhibitors reduced GABA aminotransferase and glutamate decarboxylase activities uniformly across brain nuclei.
GABA levels showed significant, region-specific lateralization, with higher concentrations in distinct areas of the right and left hemispheres.
No significant bilateral asymmetry in GABA content was observed in the globus pallidus.
Conclusions:
The study reveals inherent functional inequalities in GABAergic systems between the left and right hemispheres of the rat brain.
These findings suggest a complex, asymmetric regulation of GABAergic neurotransmission with potential implications for brain lateralization and function.