GABA_A receptors are sensitive to ethanol in distinct brain regions and are clearly involved in the acute actions of ethanol, ethanol tolerance, ethanol dependence and ethanol self-administration. Data from a variety of perspectives such as molecular, cellular and behavioral analysis have elucidated the role of GABA_A receptors in these processes. GABA_A receptor activation mediates many of the behavioral effects of ethanol including motor incoordination, anxiolysis and sedation. The actions of ethanol at GABA_A receptors are influenced by endogenous modulators such as the neuroactive steroids. Sensitization to these compounds influences ethanol dependence and withdrawal and may explain gender differences in the molecular effects of ethanol. Furthermore, GABA_A receptors may also play a role in ethanol self-administration via the mesolimbic reward system. Ethanol tolerance and dependence may be explained, in part, by changes in the function of GABA_A receptors. We have proposed that alterations in native GABA_A receptor subunit assembly could alter the functional properties of these receptors. However, post-translational modifications or other post-synaptic mechanisms may also explain changes in GABA_A receptor function. Genetic animal models of ethanol dependence have also identified GABA_A receptor genes as likely mediators of the behavioral adaptations associated with ethanol dependence and withdrawal. A better understanding of the effects of ethanol at GABA_A receptors has highlighted important potential mechanisms involved in the development of alcoholism.

Authors and Affiliations

1. Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7178, USA, , , , , , US

   A. Chistina Grobin, Douglas B. Matthews, Leslie L. Devaud & A. L. Morrow

Received: 17 December 1997/Final version: 6 February 1998

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