Lateral globus pallidus

Lateral Globus Pallidus

The Lateral Globus Pallidus (also known as the external globus pallidus or GPe) is a subcortical structure of the brain that is part of the basal ganglia system. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of voluntary movement.

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Lateral Globus Pallidus in the human brain

Anatomy

The lateral globus pallidus is located in the cerebrum, specifically in the telencephalon. It is situated lateral to the medial globus pallidus (or internal globus pallidus, GPi), from which it is separated by the medullary lamina of the globus pallidus.

Function

The lateral globus pallidus is involved in the regulation of voluntary movement. It receives input from the striatum (caudate nucleus and putamen) and sends inhibitory output to several targets, including the subthalamic nucleus and the substantia nigra pars reticulata.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of the lateral globus pallidus can lead to movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. In Parkinson's disease, there is an increased inhibitory output from the lateral globus pallidus, which leads to a decrease in movement. In Huntington's disease, there is a decreased inhibitory output, which leads to excessive movement.

See also

• Basal ganglia
• Medial globus pallidus
• Subthalamic nucleus
• Substantia nigra