GABAergic cell type diversity in the basolateral amygdala

•Comprehensive definition of GABAergic cells in rodent basolateral amygdala.•Basolateral interneurons resemble cortical cells but also show unique features.•Role of GABAergic cells of basolateral amygdala on network oscillations.

Here I review the diversity of GABAergic neurons in the rodent basolateral amygdala (BLA). In spite of the recent identification of the role played by certain neurons of BLA in learning and memory of fear, the diversity of GABAergic neurons has not been fully explored. I describe analogies and differences between GABAergic neurons in BLA and cerebral cortex. Emphasis is given to a comprehensive functional, neurochemical and anatomical classification of GABAergic neuron types.