Subthalamus

Subthalamus

The Subthalamus or prethalamus is a part of the diencephalon, a major division of the brain. It is located between the thalamus and the hypothalamus and is functionally connected to the basal ganglia system. The subthalamus is involved in the regulation of motor function and plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease.

Anatomy

The subthalamus is situated in the ventral part of the diencephalon, beneath the thalamus and above the hypothalamus. It is composed of several structures, including the subthalamic nucleus, zona incerta, and fields of Forel. The subthalamic nucleus is the largest component and is closely associated with the basal ganglia system.

Function

The subthalamus is involved in the regulation of motor function. It receives input from several areas of the brain, including the cortex, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra, and sends output to the globus pallidus and substantia nigra. This circuitry is involved in the control of movement and is disrupted in conditions such as Parkinson's disease.

Clinical significance

The subthalamus is implicated in several neurological disorders, most notably Parkinson's disease. In this condition, degeneration of neurons in the substantia nigra leads to an imbalance in the activity of the subthalamic nucleus, resulting in the characteristic motor symptoms of the disease. Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamus can be used as a treatment for Parkinson's disease.

See also

• Deep brain stimulation
• Basal ganglia
• Parkinson's disease

References

Subthalamus Resources
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