Effect of GABA-transminase inhibition on rectal temperature in mice.

gamma-Acetylenic GABA (amino-4-hex-5-ynoic acid) and gamma-vinyl GABA (amino-4-hex-5-enoic acid), two catalytic irreversible inhibitors of GABA-transaminase, produce marked sustained elevations in brain GABA concentrations. Associated with these biochemical changes is a decrease in the rectal temperature of mice. This hypothermia can be reversed by increasing ambient temperature. The results suggest GABA plays an important role in mammalian central thermoregulation.