microbes but are efficient and safer than normal chemical synthetic methods. The
greener synthesis will be discussed later in this chapter.
GABA, owing to its large profile of pharmacological activities and beneficial
effects in humans, is regarded as a “BIOACTIVE COMPOUND”. In this chapter,
we will, therefore, discuss in detail the Pharmaceutical applications of GABA, its
implication in various diseases, GABA as the bioactive compound in food and
microbes and finally, we would discuss the advances in techniques being adopted
for increased production of GABA.
24.2 Pharmaceutical Properties of GABA
24.2.1 Anti-Hypertensive Effect of GABA
In recent years because of drastic changes in eating habits and decreased physical
activity most of the people are associated with increased metabolic syndrome. The
metabolic syndrome is a collection of interrelated risk factors that seem to promote
atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The most commonly known metabolic risk
factors are atherogenic dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, and elevated plasma
glucose (Fig. 24.2) (Akama et al. 2009; Ebizuka et al. 2009).
GABA has been reported to reduce blood pressure in experimental animals and
humans. In a study reported by Morio Shimada et al., the anti-hypertensive effect of
GABA-rich Chlorella was given by oral administration for 12 weeks in subjects
Fig. 24.2 Different pharmaceutical roles of GABA
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