Subthalamus
Subthalamus
The Subthalamus or Subthalamic Nucleus (pronunciation: /sʌbˈθæləməs/) is an integral part of the basal ganglia system. It is a small lens-shaped nucleus in the brain where it is, in terms of both position and connections, intimately related to the globus pallidus.
Etymology
The term "Subthalamus" is derived from Latin, where "sub-" means under and "thalamus" means inner chamber. This is in reference to its position in the brain, located under the thalamus.
Function
The Subthalamus is involved in several functions of the body. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of movements. The Subthalamus, along with other structures in the basal ganglia, is responsible for the control of voluntary motor movements, procedural learning, habit learning, eye movements, cognition, and emotion.
Clinical Significance
Damage or disorders of the Subthalamus can lead to a variety of movement disorders. The most notable of these is Parkinson's disease, a degenerative disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. Other conditions include Hemiballismus, a rare movement disorder that is caused by damage to the Subthalamus.
Related Terms
- Basal Ganglia: A group of structures in the brain that are involved in various processes including motor control and learning.
- Thalamus: A large mass of gray matter located in the dorsal part of the diencephalon that relays sensory signals and regulates consciousness, sleep, and alertness.
- Globus Pallidus: One of the principal brain structures that regulate movements.
- Parkinson's Disease: A long-term degenerative disorder of the nervous system that mainly affects the motor system.
- Hemiballismus: A movement disorder characterized by involuntary flinging motions of the extremities.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Subthalamus
- Wikipedia's article - Subthalamus
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