GABA A (g-aminobutyric acid-type A) receptors are members of the cysteine-loop family of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels. GABA binding to A-type receptors induces anion-selective ion channel opening. These receptors are the principal fast inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors in the CNS. GABA A receptors are heteropentamer combinations of seven subunit types; aplha, beta, g, d, E, 0, and ?. Three subunits, aplha, beta, and g, have at least three separate gene products in mammals, and typical GABA A receptors have some combination of alpha, beta, and g subunits. The rat alpha 1 isoform is a 50-52kD, 428aa, 4 transmembrane protein with two terminal extracellular regions. The ligand-binding region is in the N-terminus aa15-222. As with many receptors, phosphorylation is used as a regulatory mechanism. CaM kinase II is known to phosphorylate the aplha 1 subunit and regulate benzodiazepine binding. Alpha 1 subunits are particularly abundant in the cerebellum and may contribute to GABA receptor distribution. In the hippocampus and amygdala, the alpha 1 subunit may contribute to amnesia.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:1000. Sufficient for 10 mini-blots.
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, aliquot and store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.