Scientists gain detailed images of how a protein that calms brain activity works

Illustration depicting a nerve cell synapse with structures GABAB, a neurotransmitter receptor protein, captured in four different conformations (background) and in the active state (close-up) with molecules (orange and magenta) bound to it.

Scientists figured out how Gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, interacts with a key protein receptor called GABAB. The study paints a clear picture of how GABA changes the shape of the GABAB protein and reveals a clear target site for new drugs. (June 17, 2020)