What is the primary neurotransmitter affected during a seizure?

During a seizure, the primary neurotransmitter affected is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which means it plays a crucial role in reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. Under normal circumstances, GABA helps to balance neuronal activity and prevent excessive excitatory signals that can lead to seizures.

During a seizure, there is a disruption to this balance where the excitatory signaling (mainly mediated by neurotransmitters like glutamate) overwhelms the inhibitory effects of GABA. If GABA is not effectively functioning or is insufficient, it fails to inhibit the excessive excitation, resulting in the neuronal hyperactivity characteristic of seizures. Thus, GABA's role as the major inhibitory neurotransmitter is critical in both seizure generation and in potential therapeutic strategies aiming to control seizures.