Selective actions of benzodiazepines at the transmembrane anaesthetic binding sites of the GABA_A receptor: <i>In vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> studies

Abstract

Benzodiazepine binding to transmembrane anaesthetic binding sites of the GABA_A receptor can produce positive or negative modulation manifesting as decreases or increases in locomotion, respectively. Selectivity for these sites may contribute to the distinct GABA_A receptor and behavioural actions of different benzodiazepines, particularly at high (i.e. anaesthetic) concentrations.