GABA(A)-RECEPTOR ASSEMBLY IN-VIVO - LESSONS FROM SUBUNIT MUTANT MICE

The rules governing the assembly of GABA(A) receptors in vivo were ass essed in subunit mutant mice. The transcription of individual subunit genes was regulated independently. The lack of a particular subunit di d not result in a molecular rescue by an enhanced transcription of oth er subunits. In addition, the availability of an alpha- and beta-subun it was essential for receptor formation. Finally, highly selective rec ognition processes directed the subcellular targeting of receptors. Th e loss of a particular receptor subtype (alpha(5)) did not lead to a s ubcellular redistribution of the remaining subtype (alpha(2)) present in the same cell.