Neurotransmitters in the mammalian striatum: Neuronal circuits and heterogeneity

K. Semba, H. C. Fibiger, S. R. Vincent

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

15 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The major input and output pathways of the mammalian striatum have been well established. Recent studies have identified a number of neurotransmitters used by these pathways as well as by striatal interneurons, and have begun to unravel their synpatic connections. The major output neurons have been identified as medium spiny neurons which contain γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), endogeneous opioids, and substance P. These neurons project to the pallidum and substantia nigra in a topographic and probably chemically organized manner. The major striatal afferents from the cerebral cortex, thalamus, and substantia nigra terminate, at least in part, on these striatal projection neurons. Striatal interneurons contain acetylcholine, GABA, and somatostatin plus neuropeptide Y, and appear to synapse on striatal projection neurons. In recent years, much activity has been directed to the neurochemical and hodological heterogeneities which occur at a macroscopic level in the striatum. This has led to the concept of a patch-matrix organization in the striatum.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)386-394
Number of pages9
JournalCanadian Journal of Neurological Sciences
Volume14
Issue number3 SUPPL.
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1987
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neurology

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Neurotransmitters in the mammalian striatum: Neuronal circuits and heterogeneity'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this