Human GABA / Gamma-aminobutyric acid ELISA Kit

• Microplate reader with 450 nm wavelength filter
• Multichannel Pipette, Pipette, microcentrifuge tubes and disposable pipette tips
• Incubator
• Deionized or distilled water
• Absorbent paper
• Buffer resevoir

When carrying out an ELISA assay it is important to prepare your samples in order to achieve the best possible results. Below we have a list of procedures for the preparation of samples for different sample types.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a necessary amino acid that serves as the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter and has a sizable inhibitory effect on the spinal cord. It attaches to post-synaptic GABA receptors in the synapses between neurons, where it performs its main action. This binding mechanism alters ion channels, causing the cell to become hyperpolarized and thereby blocking the transmission of an action potential. It is impossible to overestimate GABA's clinical importance given that several neurologic and psychiatric illnesses have been linked to abnormalities in GABA signaling. Numerous pharmaceutical treatments for neurological, psychiatric, and anaesthetic conditions are predicated on modulating GABA signaling. 

Its primary function is to regulate neuronal activity and maintain a delicate balance between excitation and inhibition. By binding to GABA receptors on post-synaptic neurons, GABA hyperpolarizes the cell membrane, reducing the likelihood of an action potential being triggered. This inhibitory effect helps to modulate and dampen excessive neuronal firing, promoting a state of calm and relaxation. GABA's role in regulating the overall excitability of the brain is vital for maintaining cognitive functions, emotional stability, and motor control. Imbalances in GABA levels or dysfunction in GABAergic signaling have been associated with a range of neurological conditions, such as anxiety disorders, epilepsy, insomnia, and mood disorders. Understanding the role of GABA is essential for unravelling the intricate mechanisms underlying brain function and developing targeted therapies for various neurological disorders.

These receptors are protein structures located on the surface of neurons and are divided into two main types: GABAA and GABAB receptors. GABAA receptors are ion channels that, when activated by GABA binding, allow chloride ions to enter the cell, leading to hyperpolarization and inhibition of neuronal activity. They are responsible for fast inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. GABAB receptors, on the other hand, are G-protein coupled receptors that exert a slower inhibitory effect by activating intracellular signaling pathways. The significance of GABA receptors cannot be overstated, as they are involved in modulating the overall excitability of the brain and spinal cord.

GABA is derived from glutamate, which itself originates from alpha-ketoglutarate. The Glutamate-GABA-glutamine cycle is a complex multicellular process responsible for the synthesis and processing of glutamate, glutamine, and GABA. Within the presynaptic neuron, the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) utilizes pyridoxal phosphate (vitamin B6) as a co-factor to convert glutamate into GABA. Once released into the synaptic cleft, GABA can bind to GABA receptors, be recycled within the presynaptic neuron, or be taken up by astrocytes for degradation. Inside astrocytes, GABA is broken down by GABA-transaminase (GABA-T) into succinic semialdehyde (SSA). Subsequently, succinic semialdehyde is transformed into succinate-by-succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH). Succinate then enters the tricyclic acid (TCA) cycle and converts back into alpha-ketoglutarate, which ultimately becomes glutamate. The enzyme glutamine synthase converts glutamate into glutamine, facilitating its transportation from astrocytes to presynaptic neurons. Finally, within the presynaptic neuron, phosphate-activated glutaminase converts glutamine back into glutamate, thereby restarting the Glutamate-GABA-glutamine cycle.

The Human GABA ELISA Kit is specifically designed for the quantitative detection of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) in human samples. GABA is an important neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating neuronal excitability and maintaining the balance between excitation and inhibition in the central nervous system. This kit provides researchers and clinicians with a reliable and efficient tool to measure GABA levels, facilitating studies related to neurobiology, neurological disorders, and psychiatric conditions.

The Human GABA ELISA Kit offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides high sensitivity and specificity, ensuring accurate and precise quantification of GABA levels in human samples. The kit also offers a wide dynamic range, allowing for the detection of both low and high concentrations of GABA. Additionally, it is user-friendly, with a straightforward protocol and short assay time. The kit provides reliable and reproducible results, enabling researchers to obtain valuable insights into GABA-related research areas.

The Human GABA ELISA Kit is compatible with various sample types, including human plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and tissue homogenates. The kit provides flexibility in sample selection, allowing researchers to analyze GABA levels in different biological matrices relevant to their specific research interests.

The GABA ELISA Kit components should be stored according to the instructions provided in the kit manual. Generally, it is recommended to store the kit components at the recommended temperature to ensure their stability and optimal performance.

If you encounter any issues or have suboptimal assay results, we recommend contacting our dedicated support team for assistance. They will be available to provide troubleshooting guidance, answer your questions, and ensure you achieve the best possible results with the GABA ELISA Kit.