Scientists Unveil First Comprehensive Atlas of Basal Ganglia Cell Types

Scientists unveil first comprehensive atlas of basal ganglia cell types

Capturing a complete picture of what causes brain diseases from schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease to addiction has long remained a challenge to scientists.

Molecular mapping of 8 million cells brings cerebral architecture into focus

University of California, Irvine researchers have mapped approximately 8 million cells in regions deep within the human brain, identifying 60 distinct types and revealing how they form cellular communities. The work offers a foundational reference for investigating brain systems affected by Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and other neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Scientists create largest-ever map of brain region tied to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia and autism

If you are reading this article, it is because your basal ganglia have allowed you to do so. These small structures, located deep in the center of the human brain, are together no larger than two grapes, yet they are essential for voluntary movement, decision-making, habit formation and emotions. This compact control hub is also implicated in a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disea…