This MAb recognizes a protein of 67kDa, which is identified as glutamic acid decarboxylase 1 (GDA1). There are two forms of glutamic acid decarboxylases (GADs) that are found in the brain: GAD65 (also known as GAD2) and GAD67 (also known as GAD1. GAD65 and GAD67 are members of the group II decarboxylase family of proteins and are responsible for catalyzing the rate-limiting step in the production of GABA (-aminobutyric acid) from L-glutamic acid. Althoµgh both GADs are found in the brain, GAD65 localizes to synaptic vesicle membranes in nerve terminals, while GAD67 is distributed throµghout the cell. GAD67 is responsible for the basal levels of GABA synthesis. In the case of a heightened demand for GABA in neurotransmission, GAD65 will transiently activate to assist in GABA production. The loss of GAD65 is detrimental and can impair GABA neurotransmission, however the loss of GAD67 is lethal.
