The basal ganglia, also referred to as the basal nuclei, are a group of telencephalic and diencephalic nuclei located subcortically in the white matter of the telencephalon.
Figure
Function
Because of their role in shaping movement sequences, they primarily belong to the extrapyramidal motor system (EPMS). However, in addition to motor functions, they also perform cognitive and limbic functions.
Anatomy
In the narrower sense, the basal ganglia include:
- The striatum, which is composed of the nucleus caudatus and putamen.
- The nucleus lentiformis, which is composed of the putamen and globus pallidus.
In the broader sense, the following are also included among the basal nuclei:
- Substantia nigra
- Nucleus subthalamicus
- Nucleus accumbens
From a developmental perspective, the claustrum and the amygdala are also considered part of the basal nuclei. However, they have no functional relationship with the other basal nuclei and are therefore no longer included among them according to more recent views.
Clinical relevance
The basal nuclei are a typical site of intracerebral hemorrhage, which is referred to as basal ganglia hemorrhage.