GABA and Sleep: Molecular, Functional and Clinical Aspects

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the main neurotransmitter regulating sleep. The majority of drugs presently in use for the treatment of sleep disorders act by enhancing GABAergic neuronal inhibition. The GABA system is, therefore, of prime clinical relevance for the therapy of insomnia.

The focus of this volume is on the neuropsychopharmacology and the clinical impact of the GABA system in regulating sleep and wakefulness. It presents molecular, neuropharmacological, systems-biological and clinical approaches to the understanding of the mechanism of action of GABA and GABAergic drugs. It also explores the role of GABA in the basic drives that affect sleep, and the influences that adapt sleep and wakefulness to external events.

 

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the main neurotransmitter regulating sleep. The majority of drugs presently in use for the treatment of sleep disorders act by enhancing GABAergic neuronal inhibition. This book brings together many of the world’s leading investigators to discuss current and anticipated developments in the areas of geriatric sleep medicine and provides a comprehensive examination of current principles and practice in this field. It is divided into three main sections: Section I: Basic Physiology and Pharmacology Section II: Sleep Science and Circuitry Section III: Neurotherapeutics The areas covered include findings from research investigations various aspects of GABAergic systems and the regulation of sleep. The book is suitable for basic and clinical neuropharmacologists, sleep researchers, psychiatrists, sleep disorders specialists, clinicians, medical students, and all professionals interested in the interdisciplinary areas of sleep and neuropharmacology.