Brain pathways that control dopamine release may influence motor control

Within the human brain, movement is influenced by a brain region called the striatum, which sends instructions to motor neurons in the brain. Those instructions are conveyed by two pathways, one that initiates movement (“go”) and one that suppresses it (“no-go”).

In a new study, MIT researchers have discovered an additional two pathways that arise in the striatum and appear to modulate the effects of the go and no-go pathways. These newly discovered pathways connect to dopamine-producing neurons in the brain — one stimulates dopamine release and the other inhibits it.

To learn more, read the full article: https://news.mit.edu/2024/brain-pathways-control-dopamine-release-may-influence-motor-control-1023

Author: Anne Trafton

Source: MIT News