Vasopressin secretion as a possible target of the gamma-aminobutyric acid-mediated component of the corticosteroid feedback effect.

The inhibition of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) synthesis did not interfere with the suppressive effect of dexamethasone on the stress-induced rise of plasma corticosterone levels in vasopressin-deficient homozygous Brattleboro rats. In dexamethasone-treated heterozygous rats corticosterone and vasopressin secretion increased after stress provided GABA synthesis was inhibited. The results indicate that inhibition of corticotrophin secretion by corticosteroids may in part be mediated by enhancement of GABA synthesis and a consequent inhibition of vasopressin release.