Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the central nervous system. It catalyzes the conversion of glutamate, a major excitatory neurotransmitter, into γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. This conversion is essential for maintaining the balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain, which is critical for normal brain function.