basal ganglia

The basal ganglia are a group of nuclei located deep inside the brain that play important roles in controlling voluntary movement and regulating several cognitive and emotional functions. They interact with areas of the cerebral cortex, thalamus, and other brain regions to help initiate, coordinate, and refine movements. Major components include the caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, substantia nigra, and subthalamic nucleus. Problems affecting the basal ganglia are associated with movement disorders such as Parkinson disease and Huntington disease.

The basal ganglia are groups of nerve cells deep inside the brain that help control smooth movement and influence learning, habits, and behavior.

• Group of structures located deep in the brain • Helps control and coordinate movement • Involved in learning, habits, motivation, and emotions • Communicates with the cerebral cortex and other brain areas • Includes structures such as caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus • Disorders affecting basal ganglia can cause movement problems • Related conditions include Parkinson disease and Huntington disease