Researchers characterize a novel neural population within the striatum that appears to be responsible for the interplay between acetylcholine and GABA.
Neuroimaging study reveals those with psychopathy have a 10% larger striatum than non-psychopaths. Researchers say the increased size of the striatum, a brain area associated with cognitive and social functions, may account for a higher likelihood of impulsive behaviors and increased need for stimulation often associated with psychopathy. Additionally, researchers suggest there may be an element of heredity in the neural anatomy, adding support to the neurodevelopmental perspective of psychopathy.
Striosomes, a collection of neurons in the brain's striatum, help with decision-making that requires the evaluation of risks and benefits.
Exposing mice with the autism-associated SHANK3 genetic mutation to new environments can trigger autism-like behaviors, including repetitive movements and problems with social engagement. However, adding familiar objects to the novel environment during the first exposure can reduce the behavioral and brain signaling deficits.
Study provides insight into the behavioral function of dopamine signaling in the striatum.
A new study identifies a neural network that appears to be responsible for the development of tics and tic disorders. Researchers say deep brain stimulation applied to this network helps alleviate symptoms of tics.
The delicate balance between learning new behaviors and expressing old habits is controlled by two different populations of neurons in the dorsolateral striatum.
People show a decrease in motivation to exert effort or work when feeling fatigued. Motivation can be restored if people are allowed a short rest, however for those with long-term fatigue, motivation does not improve following a short-term period of rest.
Huntington's disease may progress to advanced stages as a result of degradation of the cells' health maintenance system than due to the increased disease pathology itself.
Astrocytes in the striatum appear to play a critical role in stuttering. Researchers found treatment with risperidone helped reduce stuttering by increasing the metabolism of striatal astrocytes.
Study reveals the role the Gao protein plays in a rare genetic movement disorder often diagnosed during infancy and early childhood.
The decline of striosomal activity in the brain may explain why people lose the motivation to learn as they age.
