Question

Describe the basal nuclei and indicate its function

A) Basal nuclei regulate body temperature and hormone release
B) Basal nuclei control voluntary motor movements and procedural learning
C) Basal nuclei coordinate sensory information and emotional responses
D) Basal nuclei modulate autonomic functions and sleep-wake cycles

Answer 1

The basal nuclei control voluntary motor movements and procedural learning, assessing cortical commands and modulating them through dopaminergic activity, which is evidenced by motor function disorders like Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The basal nuclei, also referred to as the basal ganglia, are subcortical structures in the brain that play a crucial role in motor control and procedural learning. The basal nuclei assess cortical movement commands and, with the help of dopamine-releasing neurons, such as those in the substantia nigra pars compacta, modulate activities to influence the likelihood of movement taking place.

These nuclei are involved in a variety of motor functions and disorders related to motor control, including Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease, which exhibit symptoms related to the damage or dysfunction of the basal nuclei.

Importantly, the basal forebrain, part of this same subcortical structure network, is associated with functions such as attention and memory and is affected in diseases like Alzheimer's.

Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is: B) Basal nuclei control voluntary motor movements and procedural learning.