Lentiform nucleus

Lentiform nucleus is a component of the basal ganglia in the brain. It is a large, lens-shaped mass of grey matter that is located in the cerebrum on either side of the thalamus. The lentiform nucleus is divided into two sections: the putamen and the globus pallidus.

Structure

The lentiform nucleus is a bilateral structure in the brain that is divided into two parts: the putamen and the globus pallidus. The putamen is the outermost portion of the lentiform nucleus, while the globus pallidus is located internally. The globus pallidus itself is divided into two segments: the globus pallidus externus and the globus pallidus internus.

Function

The lentiform nucleus plays a crucial role in the regulation of voluntary movement. It is part of the motor circuit of the basal ganglia, which is involved in the planning and execution of movement. The lentiform nucleus also contributes to cognitive and emotional functions.

Clinical significance

Damage to the lentiform nucleus can result in a variety of movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. In Parkinson's disease, there is a loss of dopamine-producing cells in the putamen, which leads to the characteristic symptoms of the disease. In Huntington's disease, there is a loss of cells in the globus pallidus, which results in uncontrolled movements.

See also

• Basal ganglia
• Putamen
• Globus pallidus
• Thalamus
• Cerebrum

References

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  Coronal section of brain showing the lentiform nucleus
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  Horizontal section of brain showing the lentiform nucleus
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  Sagittal section of brain showing the lentiform nucleus
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  Lentiform nucleus in relation to the internal capsule
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  Lentiform nucleus in a transverse section of the brain
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  Lentiform nucleus in a coronal section of the brain
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  Lentiform nucleus in a horizontal section of the brain
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  Lentiform nucleus
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  Lentiform nucleus