'The Secret of Secrets': Is the Science Accurate?

"Dan Brown's latest thriller, The Secret of Secrets, follows neuroscientist Katherine Solomon as she reports how low GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, expands consciousness. She states in her research that low levels of GABA enable things like telepathy, remote viewing, and more. She explains that on our deathbeds, we experience a precipitous drop in GABA, revealing to us what lies beyond. Her science leads to a mind-bending cat-and-mouse chase around the most beautiful parts of Prague."

"But is it real? Does lowering GABA levels open the aperture of awareness so we can sense a greater connection to each other and all that this universe is? Like everything Dan Brown writes, it sounds very convincing. And exciting! But unfortunately, the science is wrong. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a neurotransmitter that hyperpolarizes neurons. GABA mutes neurons, so they are less likely to fire. This produces a calming effect on the brain, helping to reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep."

"Our thoughts are also affected by GABA levels. We have two thought networks: first, the default mode network (DMN), which is our internal, automatic network (aka the thoughts that make up our inner monologue), and second, the central executive network (CEN), which is the network we use when we focus on something. For example, when you are in an anxiety spiral and your thoughts are spiraling, you're listening to your DMN."

The claim that low GABA expands consciousness and enables telepathy, remote viewing, and deathbed revelations of what lies beyond is incorrect. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that hyperpolarizes neurons and mutes neural firing, producing calming effects and improving sleep while reducing stress and anxiety. Thought processes involve the default mode network (DMN) for internal monologue and the central executive network (CEN) for focused tasks. Increased GABA correlates with DMN deactivation and better external focus. Low GABA levels are actually associated with mood disorders, insomnia, and increased suicidality rather than expanded awareness.

Read at Psychology Today