The Basal Ganglia: Novel Perspectives on Motor and Cognitive Functions

Basal ganglia are a group of subcortical nuclei, of varied origin, in the brains of vertebrates. These are located at the base of the forebrain and top of the midbrain. The cerebral cortex, thalamus, and brainstem, as well as numerous other brain areas are all closely linked to the basal ganglia. Various functions are related with basal ganglia, such as the control of voluntary motor movements, procedural learning, habit learning, conditional learning, eye movements, cognition and emotion. The basal ganglia play a critical role in brain function and behavior. Their dysfunction causes a wide range of neurological conditions including disorders of behavior control and movement, as well as cognitive deficits which are similar to those caused by prefrontal cortex injury. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on basal ganglia and related motor and cognitive functions. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.