Point 20 Intro Pathway Deficit Overview Problems Contents Anatomy

Point 20. Substantia Nigra The substantia nigra lies in the midbrain immediately dorsal to the cerebral peduncles. This nucleus is an important motor center that will be discussed at greater length later in the course. Right now you need to know that some of the cells project to the caudate and putamen, two nuclei of the basal ganglia that together comprise what is called the STRIATUM. These NIGROSTRIATAL cells utilize the neurotransmitter DOPAMINE.