Nucleus basalis

Nucleus basalis is a group of neurons located in the basal forebrain. It is also known as the Basal nucleus of Meynert or Nucleus basalis of Meynert (NbM). This region of the brain is primarily associated with acetylcholine production and is implicated in several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Etymology

The nucleus basalis is named after Theodor Meynert, a German-Austrian psychiatrist and neuroanatomist, who first described this region of the brain in the 19th century. The term "nucleus" refers to a group of neurons in the central nervous system, while "basalis" indicates its location in the basal part of the brain.

Structure

The nucleus basalis is located in the substantia innominata of the basal forebrain. It is a collection of magnocellular neurons, which are large cells capable of producing and releasing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The nucleus basalis extends from the anterior commissure to the globus pallidus, and it is divided into several subregions, including the anterior, intermediate, and posterior sectors.

Function

The primary function of the nucleus basalis is the production and release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in memory and learning. The neurons in the nucleus basalis send projections to the cerebral cortex, where they release acetylcholine to modulate cortical activity.

Clinical significance

The nucleus basalis is implicated in several neurological disorders. In Alzheimer's disease, there is a significant loss of neurons in the nucleus basalis, leading to a decrease in acetylcholine production. This decrease is thought to contribute to the memory loss and cognitive decline seen in this disease. Similarly, in Parkinson's disease, there is a degeneration of neurons in the nucleus basalis, which may contribute to the cognitive symptoms of this disorder.

See also

• Basal forebrain
• Acetylcholine
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease

References

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