Chapters 2. Anatomy 08. The basal ganglia

08. The basal ganglia

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"... These dark foundations of the brain ..." Kinnier Wilson (1925).

The basal ganglia (NGC) [ 4 , 54 , 91 ] (or basal ganglia [ 38 , 39 , 78 , 79 ]), are a group of subcortical nuclei richly interconnected. They are gray because they essentially contain the cell bodies of neurons. The basal ganglia play a crucial role in motor [ 53 ].

We are essentially four nuclei: the striatum, globus pallidus, the subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra (locus Niger) [ 4 ], in addition to some other brain structures whose membership to the basal ganglia is controversial. "Note: Some authors even include the thalamus from the basal ganglia [ 39 , 66 ], but most treat it separately. "

1. The striatum [ 80 ]:

It consists of two enlarged nuclei:

1.1. The caudate nucleus [ 32 , 66 ]:

The caudate nucleus has a curved shape with front to back, a head, a body and a tail.

1.2 The putamen [ 32 , 51 ]:

ngc1

2. Pallidum [ 32 , 64 ]:

Also called (globus pallidus), comprises an inner portion and an outer side, while forming the lens with the putamen nucleus [ 2 , 37 , 66 ] (for its triangular shape on a front section).

ngc2

3. The subthalamic nucleus [ 64 ]:

The subthalamic nucleus (Luys body) is located beneath the thalamus and mesencephalon above. It has a shape of a biconvex lens of small volume.

4. Black substance [ 38 ]:

The substantia nigra (locus Niger, substantia nigra) takes its name from the color of the cells which constitute and are rich in neuro-black melanin color. It plays a very important role in the motor, it produces dopamine (essential neurotransmitter) in collaboration with other brain structures. His achievement is the main cause of Parkinson's disease [ 79 ].

Chapters 2. Anatomy 08. The basal ganglia