Article
GABA A receptors as in vivo substrate for the anxiolytic action of valerenic acid, a major constituent of valerian root extracts.
Neuropharmacology - 1 Jan 2009
Benke Dietmar, Barberis Andrea, Kopp Sascha, Altmann Karl-Heinz, Schubiger Monika, Vogt Kaspar E, Rudolph Uwe, Möhler Hanns
Abstract excerpt
Valerian extracts have been used for centuries to alleviate restlessness and anxiety albeit with unknown mechanism of action in vivo. We now describe a specific binding site on GABA(A) receptors with nM affinity for valerenic acid and valerenol, common constituents of valerian. Both agents enhanced the response to GABA at multiple types of recombinant GABA(A) receptors. A point mutation in the beta2 or beta3...
Read the complete abstract on PubMedTopics
Share this publication in a Topic to start or enrich a Post.