GABAA receptors are ligand-gated chloride channels that mediate the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the CNS.1,2 They are postsynaptic heteropentameric receptors that contains protein subunits from the following isoforms: α1-6, β1-4, γ1-3, δ, ε, π, θ, and ρ1-3, arranged around a central pore. Phasic inhibitory synaptic transmission is regulated by α1β2γ2 subunit-containing GABAA receptors, the major isoform found in the brain.2,3 The α subunit of GABAA receptors interfaces with a β subunit to form the GABA binding site that initiates GABA-induced action potentials and forms the benzodiazepine binding site with the γ subunit. The GABAA receptor α6 subunit is expressed in granule cells of the cerebellum and cochlear nucleus.4 Expression of GABRA6, which encodes the α6 subunit isoform, is decreased in withdrawal seizure-prone, but not withdrawal seizure-resistant, mice after chronic ethanol administration. Point mutation of the arginine residue at position 100 (R100Q) of the GABAA receptor α6 subunit increases sensitivity to diazepam and ethanol in rats and humans.5 Cayman’s GABAA Receptor α6 Subunit Polyclonal Antibody can be used for Western blot (WB) applications. The antibody recognizes the GABAA receptor α6 subunit at approximately 57 kDa from mouse and rat samples.WARNING This product is not for human or veterinary use.
