Embodiments methods of reducing an inflammatory immune response (e.g., inhibiting a Th1 response) and/or promoting a regulatory immune response (e.g., enhancing Treg(s)) in a mammal are provided where the method methods involve administering to the mammal a GABAA receptor positive allosteric modulator (PAM) in an amount sufficient to reduce an inflammatory immune response and/or to promote a regulatory immune response said mammal. In certain embodiments the PAM is administered in conjunction with a GABA receptor activating ligand (e.g., GABA).
