The basal ganglia are a group of interconnected subcortical nuclei that include the caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, subthalamic nucleus, and substantia nigra. They are involved in motor control, learning, and cognitive functions through complex excitatory and inhibitory circuits between the cortex and thalamus. Disorders of the basal ganglia can result in movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, chorea, athetosis, and hemiballismus.

3. (Ref. Guyton)

4. thalamus globus pallidus putamen caudate

9. Cortex Putamen globus pallidus Thalamus

12. Cortex Caudate globus pallidus Thalamus

18. Cortex Putamen globus pallidus Caudate Substantia nigra Subthalamic nucleus Reticular formation Dopamine Thalamus Reticular formation glutamate GABA Interneurons: Ach striatum GABA + + Thalamus

29. other areas

30. Cortex Putamen globus pallidus Caudate Substantia nigra Subthalamic nucleus Reticular formation Dopamine Thalamus Reticular formation glutamate GABA Interneurons: Ach striatum GABA + + Thalamus