Learning objectives
After completing this study unit you will be able to:
The basal ganglia, or basal nuclei, are a group of gray matter masses found deep within the white matter of each cerebral hemisphere. The components of basal ganglia are the caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus. The subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra are not anatomically part of the basal ganglia but are functionally connected and related to this system.
To avoid confusion, it is important to define the different terms used when referring to the basal ganglia (please note, you may see different terminology used in other resources):
The basal ganglia play a crucial role in the modulation of voluntary movements. Dysfunction of these structures can lead to several neurologic conditions broadly known as movement disorders.
If you want to learn more about the basal ganglia, check our video below!
Solidify your knowledge of the basal ganglia by taking the following quiz.
Challenge yourself further, with this customized quiz about all the subcortical structures.
Review all the structures you learned today in the gallery below.
Definition | Group of subcortical nuclei that fine-tune voluntary movement |
Components | Caudate nucleus Putamen Globus pallidus Functionally related structures: Subthalamic nucleus Substantia nigra |
Function | Planning and modulation of movement, memory, eye movements, reward processing, motivation |
Pathways |
Motor loop (movement control): Direct pathway (excitatory, movement initiation) Indirect pathway (inhibitory, movement termination) Hyperdirect pathway (inhibitory, baseline inhibition, inhibition of extemporaneous movements) Learning loop (learning of movements) Limbic loop (emotional expression of movements) Oculomotor loop (eye movements) |
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