The nucleus basalis of Meynert is a group of large cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain, lying in the substantia innominata below the globus pallidus and anterior commissure. It is the main source of acetylcholine for the cerebral cortex. It belongs to the basal forebrain rather than the basal ganglia proper.
| Location | Basal forebrain, in the substantia innominata below the lentiform nucleus and anterior commissure |
|---|---|
| Connections |
|
| Blood Supply | Anterior cerebral artery (perforating branches); Lenticulostriate arteries; Anterior choroidal artery |
Supplies acetylcholine to the cortex, supporting attention, learning and memory.
Neurons of the nucleus basalis degenerate early in Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease dementia, which is the basis for treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil. Anticholinergic drugs that block its effects can cause confusion, especially in older people. Deep brain stimulation here has been studied for dementia.
Loss of cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis contributing to memory and attention decline.
Cognitive decline in Parkinson disease linked partly to loss of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons.
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