GABA(B) RECEPTORS

GABA(B) receptors are a distinct subclass of receptors for the major i nhibitory transmitter 4-aminobutanoic acid (GABA) that mediate depress ion of synaptic transmission and contribute to the inhibition controll ing neuronal excitability. The development of specific agonists and an tagonists for these receptors has led to a better understanding of the ir physiology and pharmacology, highlighting their diverse coupling to different intracellular effecters through G(i)/G(o) proteins. This re view emphasises our current knowledge of the neurophysiology and neuro chemistry of GABA(B) receptors, including their heterogeneity, as well as the therapeutic potential of drugs acting at these sites.