GABAergic neurons release GABA into the synaptic cleft, where it binds to GABA receptors on the post-synaptic neuron. There are two main types of GABA receptors: GABAA and GABAB. GABAA receptors are ionotropic and mediate fast synaptic inhibition by allowing chloride ions to enter the neuron, thereby hyperpolarizing it. GABAB receptors are metabotropic and mediate slower, prolonged inhibitory effects through G-proteins and second messengers.
