Benzodiazepine exposure induces transcriptional down-regulation of GABA receptor α1 subunit gene via L-type voltage-gated calcium channel activation in rat cerebrocortical neurons.

GABA receptors are targets of different pharmacologically relevant drugs, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and anesthetics. In particular, benzodiazepines are prescribed for the treatment of anxiety, sleep disorders, and seizure disorders. Benzodiazepines potentiate GABA responses by binding to GABA receptors, which are mainly composed of α (1-3, 5), β2, and γ2 subunits.