Basal Ganglia and Parkinson's

Question 1

What is the function of the Basal Ganglia?

Answer 1

Determines WHAT do through inhibition and disinhibition (Refine motor movement)
[Specialised action selection mechanism]

Question 2

Which structures form the Basal Ganglia?

Answer 2

1) Striatum: Caudate Nucleus, GP (s and ex) and Putamen (Lentiform Nucleus)
2) Subthalamic Nucleus
3) Substantia Nigra

Question 3

What are 4 diseases associated with BG?

Answer 3

1) Parkinson’s
2) Huntington’s
3) OCD
4) ADHD

Question 4

What are the reasons behind Parkinson’s and Huntington’s?

Answer 4

Parkinson’s: Not enough dopamine (Reduced movement)

Huntington’s: Too much dopamine

Question 5

What are the 3 signs of Parkinson’s?

Answer 5

1) Bradykinesia
2) Tremors
3) Rigidity

Question 6

What are the 3 signs of Huntington’s?

Answer 6

1) Personality change
2) Dementia
3) Chorea: (Jerk and Involuntary movements)

Question 7

What is the pathway of dopamine production?

Answer 7

Tyrosine –> L-Dopa –> Dopamine