What Is Globus Pallidus?

The globus pallidus is one of the three components that make up the basal ganglia. The other two sections are the putamen and the caudate. The basal ganglia are sections in the brain associated with motor control and learning. The globus pallidus is involved in controlling subconscious voluntary movement. The globus pallidus transmits information from the putamen and caudate to the thalamus.

Basal Ganglia

• The globus pallidus is part of a complex system of nuclei in the brain called the basal ganglia.

  To understand the globus pallidus, look first at the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia is a complex system of nuclei (centers) in the brain. It is composed of the striatum, pallidum, subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra. The striatum is composed of the caudate nucleus, putamen and nucleus accumbens. The globus pallidum and ventral pallidum are located under the putamen, adjacent to the thalmus. The components of the basal ganglia that control the motor functions are sometimes called the "extrapyramidal motor system." Though the basal ganglia are important in motor and learning functions, it also plays a part in addictions and emotions.

Globus Pallidus Anatomy

• We can think of the globus pallidus in two parts: the globus pallidus externa and the globus pallidus interna. Both parts obtain information from the caudate and putamen, and both the externa and interna sections communicate with the subthalamus (or lower thalamus).

Globus Pallidus Interna

• Though the globus pallidus externa and interna share many of the same functions, the globus pallidus interna does carry some extra responsibilities. The globus pallidus interna sends inhibitory signals to the thalamus and also sends signals to the midbrain area to help regulate the body's posture.

A Word About the Thalamus

• The thalamus is an important component of the basal ganglia and globus pallidus relationship.

  The thalamus is also related to motor functions in the body as well as sensory perception, sleep, consciousness and alertness. The relationship and proper functioning between the basal ganglia, globus pallidus and thalamus is critical.

Conditions Associated with the Globus Pallidus

• Improper function of the globus pallidus and surrounding areas can contribute to certain motor or mental conditions.

  Because the globus pallidus helps to regulate motor functions in the body, it is related to several motor conditions. The globus pallidus communicates with the putamen, the caudate and the thalamus and these sections must function together properly or certain conditions could arise, such as obsessive compulsive disorder, some forms of schizophrenia, attention-deficit disorder, depression, Tourette's, Parkinson's, Huntington's and cerebal palsy.