BASAL GANGLION Meaning and
Definition
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The basal ganglia, also known as basal nuclei, are a group of structurally and functionally interconnected subcortical nuclei located deep within the brain. Consisting of several distinct nuclei, including the caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus, they are primarily involved in the regulation and coordination of voluntary motor movements, as well as cognitive and emotional functions.
The basal ganglia receive inputs from various regions of the cortex and subcortical structures, forming complex neural circuits. They serve as an integration center, influencing and modulating movement initiation, execution, and termination. Through inhibitory and excitatory signals, the basal ganglia regulate the selection and sequencing of motor commands, ensuring smooth and coordinated movements.
Besides motor control, the basal ganglia also play a role in cognitive processes such as learning, memory, attention, and executive functions. Dysfunction or damage to the basal ganglia can result in movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and dystonia, as well as cognitive impairments such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and schizophrenia.
Overall, the basal ganglia are critical for the proper functioning of voluntary movements and cognitive processes, acting as a control center that helps maintain smooth coordination, balance, and flexibility in motor behaviors, while also contributing to cognitive and emotional regulation.
Common Misspellings for BASAL GANGLION
- vasal ganglion
- nasal ganglion
- hasal ganglion
- gasal ganglion
- bzsal ganglion
- bssal ganglion
- bwsal ganglion
- bqsal ganglion
- baaal ganglion
- bazal ganglion
- baxal ganglion
- badal ganglion
- baeal ganglion
- bawal ganglion
- baszl ganglion
- bassl ganglion
- baswl ganglion
- basql ganglion
- basak ganglion
Etymology of BASAL GANGLION
The term basal ganglion is derived from two different sources.
1. Basal originates from the Latin word basalis which translates to lowest or base. It refers to the position of the basal ganglia at the base of the forebrain.
2. Ganglion comes from the Greek word ganglion meaning knot or tumor. In ancient anatomy, the term ganglion was used to describe any swelling or knot-like structure. Over time, it has specifically come to refer to groups of nerve cell bodies.
Therefore, the term basal ganglion describes a collection of nerve cell bodies situated at the base of the brain. The plural form of ganglion is commonly used, so the term is often referred to as basal ganglia.
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