The GABA/benzodiazepine receptor-chloride ionophore complex: nature and modulation.

1. A high affinity, saturable, stereospecific binding site for Benzodiazepines has been found to be functionally and possibly structurally related to a GABA receptor-chloride ionophore complex. 2. There are both central (CNS) as well as "peripheral" binding sites, involving multiple organs. 3. Evidence strongly suggests that mutually exclusive Benzodiazepine agonists and antagonists bind to the same receptor, possibly in an agonist-antagonist-inverse agonist continuum. 4. The search for an endogenous ligand has been inconclusive and the question of such a substance remains open. 5. Although the relationship between this receptor and the Limbic System remains unclear, it seems certain that the Benzodiazepine receptor plays an important role in the modulation of Limbic System excitability.