Cortical projections that excite striatal cells participating in the direct pathway lead to inhibition of the
A) Globus pallidus internus and substantia nigra, pars reticulata
B) Globus pallidus internus and substantia nigra, pars compacta
C) Globus pallidus externus and substantia nigra, pars compacta
D) Globus pallidus externus and substantia nigra, pars reticulata

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direct pathway of the basal ganglia involves the excitation of striatal neurons that project to and inhibit the globus pallidus internus (GPi) and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). This inhibition leads to a decrease in the inhibitory output from these nuclei to the thalamus, ultimately facilitating movement.

Cortical Projections That Excite Striatal Cells Participating in the Direct