A major inhibitory neurotransmitter; undersupply linked to seizures, tremors, and insomnia.

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Inhibitory signaling in the brain relies on GABA, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. GABA works by opening chloride channels on neurons, making it harder for them to fire and thereby dampening neural activity. When GABA levels are too low, neurons become more easily excited, which can lead to seizures. In motor circuits, a loss of inhibition can produce tremors, and in sleep-regulation systems, reduced inhibitory control can contribute to insomnia. Glutamate is the main excitatory transmitter, so excess glutamate promotes activation rather than inhibition. Serotonin influences mood and arousal but isn’t the primary inhibitory signal, and acetylcholine has diverse roles, including attention and muscle activation, rather than serving as the major inhibitory neurotransmitter. So the described symptoms fit an undersupply of GABA.