Low posttrauma GABA plasma levels as a predictive factor in the development of acute posttraumatic stress disorder

摘要: Abstract Background Gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) regulates the intensity and duration of central hyperadrenergic response in times high stress has been negatively associated with anxiety, depression, sleep problems. We hypothesized that individuals low plasma GABA levels may be more prone to develop posttraumatic disorder (PTSD) aftermath trauma exposure. Methods To test this hypothesis, we measured a population 108 road traffic accident victims on arrival at traumatology department assessed them for PTSD 6 weeks later. Results The mean level (nmol/mL) group ( n = 55; M=.20; SD=.08) was significantly lower compared members trauma-exposed who did not [n 17; M=.30; SD=.09), t(70) 3.94, p=.0002]. Conclusions Provided brain are genetically predetermined, our results would suggest premorbidly vulnerable stress-related disorders such as acute PTSD. If replicated, exposure might help identify risk developing