BACKGROUND:

In the 40 years since the first benzodiazepine was brought into clinical use there has been a substantial growth in understanding the molecular basis of action of these drugs and the role of their receptors in disease states.

AIMS:

To present current knowledge about the role of the GABA(A)-benzodiazepine receptor in anxiety disorders, new insights into the molecular biology of the receptor complex and neuroimaging studies suggesting involvement of these receptors in disease states.

METHOD:

An overview of published literature, including some recent data.

RESULTS:

The molecular biology of this receptor is detailed. Molecular genetic studies suggesting involvement of the GABA(A)-benzodiazepine receptor in animal behaviour and learning are outlined; possible parallels with human psychopathology are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current insights into the role of the GABA(A)-benzodiazepine receptor in the action of benzodiazepines and as a factor in disease states, in both animals and humans, may lead to new, more sophisticated interventions at this receptor complex and potentially significant therapeutic gains.