Progress in Research on the Mechanism of GABA in Improving Sleep
Shuyu Li, Yanhui Li, Chunxu Xue, Ying Zhang, Tong Tong, Zijun Ouyang, Dong Liu, Jun Cai, Haiyan Sun
Abstract
Sleep disorders represent a growing global health concern with significant socio-economic impacts. GABA, a natural bioactive compound abundant in various fermented foods, especially probiotic-fermented foods, has garnered increasing attention for its potential to improve sleep quality. This review systematically elucidates the multi-pathway mechanisms by which GABA regulates sleep, focusing on (1) indirect modulation of central sleep-wake circuits via the gut-brain axis through vagal nerve, neuroendocrine, and immune pathways; (2) potential entry into the brain by leveraging the dynamic permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and transporter-mediated active transport; and (3) metabolic conversion into active substances like γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which synergistically optimizes sleep architecture via multiple receptor systems and energy metabolism. Furthermore, we summarize the sleep-promoting effects of GABA-enriched foods observed in animal and clinical studies and discuss emerging applications, including high-GABA-yielding probiotics and personalized nutrition strategies for sleep intervention. This review provides a theoretical basis and innovative directions for the development of GABA-based functional foods and sleep health management.