Striatum

A major input nucleus of the basal ganglia, consisting of the caudate nucleus and putamen, involved in motor control, reward, motivation, and learning.

Key Functions:

• Receives excitatory input from the cerebral cortex and dopaminergic input from the substantia nigra pars compacta.
• Initiates and plans movements.
• Involved in reward-motivated behaviors and habit learning.
• Plays a role in decision-making.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Caudate Nucleus (component of)
• Putamen (component of)
• Basal Ganglia (major input nucleus of)
• Substantia Nigra Pars Compacta (receives dopaminergic input from)
• Cerebral Cortex (receives input from)
• Globus Pallidus (projects to)