The function of α1β2γ2s GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes was significantly potentiated by seven surfactants, isoflurane, and ethanol (P<0.05 for every compound). Bar graphs show the mean GABA-induced responses, at agonist EC20 concentrations, from multiple oocytes expressing GABAA receptors in the presence of test compounds. Means ± SE (N = 4–7) are displayed. SDS = sodium dodecyl sulfate, SOS = sodium n-octyl sulfate, OTABR = (1-octyl)trimethylammonium bromide, DTACL = (1dodecyl) trimethylammonium chloride, DAPS = 3-(dodecyldimethylammonio)propanesulfonate. C12 = 12 carbon tail, C8 = 8 carbon tail for the surfactants. Anionic, cationic, zwitterionic, and uncharged refer to head group charges for the surfactants.