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- Title
GABA<sub>B</sub> Receptors in Neuroendocrine Regulation.
- Authors
Victoria Lux-Lantos; María Bianchi
- Abstract
Abstract Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), in addition to being a metabolic intermediate and the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the synaptic cleft, is postulated as a neurohormone, a paracrine signaling molecule, and a trophic factor. It acts through pre- and post-synaptic receptors, named GABAA and GABAC (ionotropic receptors) and GABAB (metabotropic receptor). Here we reviewed the participation of GABAB receptors in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, using physiological, biochemical, and pharmacological approaches in rats, as well as in GABAB1 knock-out mice, that lack functional GABAB receptors. Our general conclusion indicates that GABAB receptors participate in the regulation of pituitary hormone secretion acting both in the central nervous system and directly on the gland. PRL and gonadotropin axes are affected by GABAB receptor activation, as demonstrated in the rat and also in the GABAB1 knock-out mouse. In addition, hypothalamic and pituitary GABAB receptor expression is modulated by steroid hormones. GABA participation in the brain control of pituitary secretion through GABAB receptors depends on physiological conditions, being age and sex critical factors. These results indicate that patients receiving GABAB agonists/antagonists should be monitored for possible endocrine side effects.
- Subjects
NEUROHORMONES; PITUITARY gland; GONADOTROPIN; HEBIN
- Publication
Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, 2008, Vol 28, Issue 6, p803
- ISSN
0272-4340
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1007/s10571-008-9263-4