The word "nucleus basalis" refers to a group of nerve cells located in the basal forebrain that are essential for cognitive functions such as attention and memory. The spelling of this term is based on the Latin origin of the words "nucleus" and "basalis." The correct pronunciation in IPA phonetic transcription is /'njuːkliəs bə'seɪləs/. The stress is on the first syllable of "nucleus" and on the second syllable of "basalis". Understanding the correct spelling and pronunciation of scientific terms is essential for clear communication in the field of neuroscience.
The nucleus basalis, also known as the nucleus basalis of Meynert, is a collection of neurons located in the basal forebrain, a region deep within the brain. It is primarily composed of cholinergic neurons that play a crucial role in several cognitive functions, including attention, learning, and memory.
The term "nucleus basalis" literally translates to "basal nucleus," referring to its location at the base of the brain. It receives input from various brain areas, including the cerebral cortex and thalamus, and projects widely to different brain regions, notably the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, via long cholinergic fibers.
The nucleus basalis is integral to the cholinergic system, which is involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter release, particularly acetylcholine. Acetylcholine acts as a neurotransmitter and is crucial for the transmission of signals between neurons. Dysfunction of the nucleus basalis and subsequent disruption to the cholinergic system have been implicated in the pathophysiology of several neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Clinically, damage or degeneration of the nucleus basalis can lead to cognitive deficits, memory impairment, attentional disturbances, and alterations in arousal. Consequently, the nucleus basalis has become an important therapeutic target, with treatments aimed at enhancing cholinergic activity in the brain to improve cognitive function in various neurological conditions.
In summary, the nucleus basalis is a collection of cholinergic neurons located in the basal forebrain that play a crucial role in cognitive processes such as attention, learning, and memory.
N. olivaris inferior.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "nucleus basalis" is derived from Latin.
- "Nucleus" comes from the Latin word "nucleus", meaning "kernel". It refers to a central or essential part of something.
- "Basalis" is the Latin adjective form of "basis", meaning "base" or "foundation".
In the context of neuroscience, the term "nucleus basalis" typically refers to a specific group of neurons located in the basal forebrain region of the brain. This region is important for various cognitive functions, including attention and memory.