Etomidate, GABAA agonist

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Cytochrome P450 3A4 also known as CYP3A4 is an important enzyme in the metabolism of many drugs and xenobiotics. It has a molecular weight of approximately 57 kDa and is primarily expressed in the liver and small intestine. CYP3A4 plays a critical role in the metabolic clearance of around 50% of all clinically prescribed drugs. Alongside its cousins like CYP3A5 it is involved in the oxidative metabolism of bilirubin and various hormones. Additionally the subfamily of GABA A receptors including GABRB2 GABRG2 GABRA1 and GABRA2 function as chloride channels activated by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Biological function summary

These GABA A receptors form pentameric complexes that modulate synaptic transmission. They are responsible for reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. They are essential for calming neural circuits and are modulated by several ligands and drugs like benzodiazepines. The modulation of these receptors can alter mood anxiety and epileptic states. In the adrenal cortex enzymes such as CYP11B1 also known as steroid 11β-hydroxylase and CYP11B2 also known as aldosterone synthase are involved in steroidogenesis converting cholesterol into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids important for stress response and electrolyte balance.

Pathways

CYP3A4 is prominent in the drug metabolism pathway and interacts closely with various drugs altering their efficacy and toxicity. The GABA A receptors on the other hand partake in the inhibitory neurotransmission pathway important for maintaining neural circuit balance. CYP3A4 shares pathways with proteins like CYP2D6 while GABA A receptors are interlinked with associated proteins like GABARAP (GABA receptor-associated protein) that aid in receptor trafficking and function.

Associated diseases and disorders

The malfunction or dysregulation of these proteins can lead to significant health issues. CYP3A4's altered activity can result in drug-related adverse effects or toxicities impacting neuronal and systemic functions. The GABA A receptors are associated with neurological disorders including epilepsy and anxiety disorders. Mutations or irregular expression of GABRB2 or GABRG2 can disrupt normal brain function links them to these disorders. CYP11B1 and CYP11B2 involve disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia and primary aldosteronism causing hormonal imbalances that affect blood pressure and immune response.