GABA CAS: 56-12-2

1. Introduction

GABA (CAS: 56-12-2) is a compound with the chemical formula C4H9NO2, commonly referred to as gamma-aminobutyric acid. This four-carbon, non-protein amino acid is found extensively in vertebrates, plants, and microbes. Also known as γ-aminobutyric acid or GABA, it has the structural formula H2NCH2CH2COOH and a molecular weight of 103.1. GABA appears as a white crystalline powder with no optical activity. It has a melting point of 203°C (with decomposition), is freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol and acetone, and insoluble in benzene or ether. Upon decomposition, it loses water to form pyrrolidone.

The natural GABA concentration is typically low, ranging from 0.3 to 32.5 μmol/g. Research indicates that GABA buildup in plants is linked to stress responses, triggering rapid accumulation under conditions like hypoxia, heat shock, cold exposure, mechanical injury, or salt stress. Processing plant-based foods through stress treatments or microbial fermentation elevates their GABA levels. This has sparked significant interest in developing GABA-enriched functional products. As a novel functional ingredient, GABA is increasingly utilized in the food sector, with GABA-rich items from germinated brown rice, soybeans, and broad beans now commercially available.

2. Flow Chart

GABA powder + water
↓
Blend and pH adjustment
↓
Hydrolysis
↓
Separation
↓
Purification
↓
Concentration
↓
Spray drying
↓
Final packaging

3. Quality Standard

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is employed to detect γ-aminobutyric acid content. The procedure includes:

3.1 Standard solution preparation: Accurately weigh γ-aminobutyric acid reference standard, dissolve in mobile phase, and dilute to volume.

3.2 Sample solution preparation: Accurately weigh γ-aminobutyric acid sample, dissolve in mobile phase, and dilute to volume.

3.3 Chromatography parameters:
Column: Sepax HP SCX;
Mobile phase: 0.2M phosphate buffer, pH 2.5-3.5;
Flow rate: 0.5-1.2 mL/min;
Detection wavelength: 210 nm.

3.4 Content determination:
The γ-aminobutyric acid content (X1) in the sample is calculated using:
X1 = (AI × ms × c × M) / (as × 100)

Where:
X1 = γ-aminobutyric acid content in sample (%);
AI = peak area of γ-aminobutyric acid in sample;
ms = mass of γ-aminobutyric acid standard (g);
c = purity of γ-aminobutyric acid standard (%);
as = peak area of γ-aminobutyric acid standard;
M = sample mass (g).

γ-Aminobutyric acid in the sample may be obtained via chemical synthesis or biosynthesis. Ideally, the content ranges from 20-99.9%; optimally, 80-99%.

4. Chromatogram

5. Functions

GABA serves as the key neurotransmitter in sleep regulation. During rest needs, the brain secretes GABA to dampen nerve excitability and promote relaxation. Studies show GABA levels in brain tissue rise by 15% during sleep versus wakefulness.

GABA levels decline with age and stress
While the brain can produce GABA, aging or psychological stress reduces synthesis, leading to anxiety, depression, and sleep issues.

Low GABA in sleep disorder patients
Neurotransmitter analyses in sleep disorder patients across age groups reveal GABA levels at or below normal ranges. Clinical treatments for sleep issues primarily enhance GABA's inhibitory effects, confirming that boosting GABA aids in calming excitement, inducing sedation, and promoting sleep.

6. Applications

GABA's role in enhancing sleep involves:

Relieving anxiety and curbing overexcitation: As a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, GABA supports cerebral circulation. Adequate GABA intake helps ease anxiety, reduce excitation, and improve sleep quality.

Boosting metabolism: GABA elevates hexokinase activity in the TCA cycle, speeding up brain glucose metabolism, enhancing cerebral blood and oxygen flow, and facilitating sleep.

Additionally, GABA provides:
Memory enhancement: Reduces stress, stabilizes the central nervous system, and strengthens brain memory functions;
Nerve cell anti-aging: Boosts glucose phosphatase activity, engages in brain TCA cycle, and revitalizes brain cells;
Anti-anxiety effects: Activates relevant brain receptors, blocks anxiety signals from reaching the brain center, calming nerves at the root;
Beauty benefits: Improves skin blood flow and nutrient delivery;
Blood pressure control: Modulates the central nervous system to dilate vessels via spinal cord action, lowering pressure.

7. Stability and Safety Studies

Extensive stability and safety evaluations have been conducted on this product. Accelerated and long-term stability tests confirm its robust stability. Animal clinical trials demonstrate its safety.

8. Third-Party Test Reports

Multiple third-party analyses have been performed over the years by labs such as SGS, Eurofins, and Pony. We can accommodate any specific testing needs. Below are sample reports for reference.

9. Certifications

Botanical Essence holds certifications including HALAL, Kosher, ISO22000, HACCP, EU, and USDA Organic, issued by accredited bodies.

10. Patents

Years of dedicated R&D have led to securing relevant patents for this product in China.

11. Key Clients

Botanical Essence is a trusted supplier of GABA to leading global manufacturers in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries.

12. Exhibitions

We regularly participate in events like CPhI, FIC, Vitafoods, and SupplySide West to broaden our reach worldwide, aiming to bring benefits to customers everywhere through Botanical Essence products.

13. Customer Feedback

With warehouses in Miami, USA, and Italy, EU, plus online presence on Alibaba, we ensure seamless transactions. These initiatives have been highly appreciated by our clients.

Elizabeth Morgan