Schematic representation of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA_A) receptor. The functional receptor consists of five proteins, or subunits--most likely two α subunits, one β subunit, and two γ subunits. (Question marks indicate that the identity of these subunits has not been confirmed.) The proposed binding sites for GABA (α and β subunits), benzodiazepines (adjacent α and γ subunits), barbituates (unidentified subunit), and alcohol α, β, and γ subunits) are indicated. P's represent phosphate groups attached to the receptor that regulate the receptor's activity and sensitivity to alcohol.

Source: Mihic, S.J., and Harris, R.A. GABA and the GABA_A receptor. Alcohol Health & Research World 21(2):127–131, 1997.

Download this file as a PDF

Updated: February 2001