Скачать или смотреть How the GABA-B Receptor Works: An Essential G-Protein Coupled Receptor

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The GABA-B receptor functions as a neuronal inhibitor, distinct from its counterpart, the GABA-A receptor. It operates as a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), meaning that upon activation, it initiates a cellular signaling cascade rather than acting as a direct ion channel. When a signal molecule binds, the receptor releases its associated G-protein. The G-beta-gamma subunit then travels through the cell to activate a specific type of potassium channel called GIRK (G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channel). The opening of the GIRK channel allows positively charged potassium ions to exit the neuron's cytoplasm and flow into the extracellular space. This efflux of positive charge causes the neuron's membrane potential to become more negative, a process called hyperpolarization, which effectively suppresses the neuron's ability to fire an action potential. This entire inhibitory process can be dynamically regulated by the auxiliary protein KCTD12.