Factor I and gamma‐aminobutyric acid

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Abstract
Factor I, which is present in mammalian brain and spinal cord extracts, inhibits the generation of impulses by the stretch receptor neuron of the crayfish. Factor I was isolated from beef brain in a highly active form and found to be identical with gamma-aminqbutyric acid (GAB). The Factor I activity of other amino acids and compounds of physiologic interest was determined and is reported. Though all compounds except gamma-amino-[beta]-hydroxybutyric acid had minimal Factor I activity, it is not known if GAB is the only substance in brain which is strongly active as Factor L GAB applied topically to the exposed cortex of cats causes reversible depression of the surface negative phase of sensory evoked potentials, increases after-discharges, changes the larger amplitude waves of the recruiting response and causes other effects. Other studies show that hydrazide intoxication is accompanied by a decrease in the GAB level of the mammalian brain concomitant with the appearance of convulsions. Additional experimental data relating to the storage, release, production and the final disposition of GAB are presented in outline form. 15 references.