Topic: excitation and inhibition balance

The balance between excitation and inhibition in the central nervous system is fundamental for its development and optimal functioning, with defective and/or altered GABAergic signalling (through Cl-permeable GABAA receptors) found implicated in diverse neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. A major role in the maintenance of the excitation and inhibition balance is played by the Na+-dependent Cl-importer NKCC1 and the Na+-independent Cl-exporter KCC2. These cation chloride co-transporters modulate the intracellular chloride concentration and they are dysregulated or mutated in a wide v