Which part of the brain is referred to as the striatum?

The striatum is a critical component of the basal ganglia, which is involved in the regulation of voluntary motor control, procedural learning, and various cognitive functions. The striatum specifically comprises two key structures: the caudate nucleus and the putamen. These structures work together to process information related to movement and are also implicated in reward, motivation, and reinforcement learning.

The caudate nucleus is involved in a variety of functions, including learning and memory, while the putamen primarily coordinates movement and influences various types of learning. Together, they form the striatum, which serves as an integration center for motor and cognitive information, influencing both voluntary movements and various behavioral responses.

Understanding the composition and role of the striatum is essential for grasping its significance in neuroanatomical studies, especially those focusing on movement disorders, addiction, and other neurological conditions.