Neuronal ion channels of different types often do not function independently but will inhibit or potentiate the activity of other types of channels, a process called cross-talk. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA receptor) and the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABA A receptor) are important excitatory and inhibitory receptors in the central nervous system, respectively. Currently, cross-talk between the NMDA receptor and the GABA A receptor, particularly in the central auditory system, is not well understood. In the present study, we investigated functional interactions between the NMDA receptor and the GABA A receptor using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques in cultured neurons from the inferior colliculus, which is an important nucleus in the central auditory system. We found that the currents induced by aspartate at 100 μmol L -1 were suppressed by the pre-perfusion of GABA at 100 μmol L −1 , indicating cross-inhibition of NMDA receptors by activation of GABA A receptors. Moreover, we found that the currents induced by GABA at 100 μmol L −1 (I GABA ) were not suppressed by the pre-perfusion of 100 /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), reduced the inhibition of I GABA by aspartate, indicating the involvement of CaMKII in this cross-inhibition. Our study demonstrates a functional interaction between NMDA and GABA A receptors in the inferior colliculus of rats. The presence of cross-talk between these receptors suggests that the mechanisms underlying information processing in the central auditory system may be more complex than previously believed.inferior colliculus, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor, whole-cell patch-clamp, cross-talk