Autoradiographic localization of subcomponents of the macromolecular GABA receptor complex.

The autoradiographic localization of subcomponents of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor-chloride ionophore complex has provided insight into the distribution of this macromolecular system. GABA inhibits neurons by preferentially increasing the permeability of the affected membrane to chloride ions. This inhibition can be modified by the presence of other substances which bind to the GABA receptor complex. Autoradiographic localization of specific receptor subtypes associated with this complex has been accomplished in the central nervous system. This type of analysis has been performed on high and low affinity GABAA, benzodiazepine (BZ; both BZ1 and BZ2) and convulsant sites. These receptor sites are situated in distinct brain regions and co-exist in several areas. Other receptor subtypes, which may be influenced by the presence of GABA, can be analyzed for comparison in order to define regions of the brain where GABA may be exerting independent effects (i.e., those not associated with chloride channels). Microscopic localization of receptor sites indicates specific areas to investigate in further studies concerning the characterization of subcomponents of the macromolecular GABA complex associated with chloride ion channels.