GABA transporter type 1

GABA transporter 1 (GAT1) also known as sodium- and chloride-dependent GABA transporter 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the "SLC6A1" gene.
Function.
GAT1 is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter, which removes GABA from the synaptic cleft. GABA Transporter 1 uses energy from the dissipation of a Na+ gradient, aided by the presence of a Cl− gradient, to translocate GABA across CNS neuronal membranes. The stoichiometry for GABA Transporter 1 is 2 Na+: 1 Cl−: 1 GABA.
Clinical significance.
Research has shown that schizophrenia patients have GABA synthesis and expression altered, leading to the conclusion that GABA Transporter-1, which adds and removes GABA from the synaptic cleft, plays a role in the development of neurological disorders such as schizophrenia.
Interactions.
SLC6A1 has been shown to interact with STX1A.