Medium spiny neuron

Medium Spiny Neuron is a type of GABAergic inhibitory neuron that makes up approximately 95% of the neurons within the striatum, a major component of the basal ganglia. Each medium spiny neuron has a roughly spherical cell body, numerous spiny dendrites, and a single, long, branching axon. These neurons are known for their long spines, where the majority of the synapses occur.

Structure

Medium spiny neurons are characterized by their medium-sized cell bodies and the numerous spines that cover their dendrites. These spines are the main sites of synapses, where signals from other neurons are received. The axon of a medium spiny neuron is long and highly branched, allowing it to send signals to many other neurons.

Function

Medium spiny neurons are primarily involved in the processing of information related to movement, reward, and learning. They receive input from the cortex and the thalamus, and send output to other parts of the basal ganglia. The activity of these neurons is modulated by dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward and motivation.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in medium spiny neurons have been implicated in several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. In Huntington's disease, for example, there is a loss of medium spiny neurons in the striatum, leading to movement problems and other symptoms.

See also

• Neuron
• Striatum
• Basal ganglia
• Dopamine

References

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