The Basal Ganglia

Question 1

striatum =

Answer 1

caudate nucleus

putamen

Question 2

the basal ganglia =

Answer 2

globus pallidus (GPi, GPe)
subthalamic nucleus 
substantia nigra 
caudate nucleus 
putamen

Question 3

Basal ganglias impact on movement

Answer 3

facilitates initiation of desired movements and inhibits undesired movements

Question 4

Impact of the thalamus on the motor cortex in the direct pathway through the basal ganglia

Answer 4

Thalamus excites the cortex with glutamate initiating voluntary movement

Question 5

Impact of the thalamus on the motor cortex in the indirect pathway through the basal ganglia

Answer 5

Thalamus is inhibited (by the GPi) so it cannot stimulate the motor cortex

Question 6

How does the substantia nigra stimulate the direct pathway

Answer 6

Releases DA which binds D1 receptors on striatal cells projecting to the GPi

Question 7

How does the substantia nigra stimulate the indirect pathway

Answer 7

Releases DA which binds D2 receptors on striatal cells projecting to the GPe

Question 8

The first 2 steps of both the direct and indirect pathway

Answer 8

Motor cortex excites the striatum (glutamate)

Striatum inhibits the GPi (direct) / (GPe (indirect) (GABA)

Question 9

A common rule to remember to remember the 2 pathways

Answer 9

double negative (2x GABA) results in a positive (Glu)

Question 10

Dopamines effect on the stiratum favours this pathway

Answer 10

direct