Striatum

The striatum is a key part of the brain located within the basal ganglia, crucial for coordinating movement and various cognitive functions. It is involved in reward processing, decision-making, and habits, acting as a pathway that connects different brain regions. The striatum helps integrate information about rewards and voluntary actions, influencing our behavior based on experiences. Abnormal functioning of the striatum can be linked to various neurological and psychiatric conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and addiction, highlighting its importance in both movement and mental health.