Book excerpt: Darlison’s excellent work reviews aspects of GABA-A receptor function, as well as the properties of a variety of other important inhibitory proteins, such as GABA-C receptors and G-protein coupled receptors including neuropeptides. Glycine receptors and potassium channels are covered too. The consequences of mutations that disrupt the regulation of excitatory neurotransmission, and efforts to target the GABAergic system for therapeutic benefit, are also discussed.