GABA and the Basal Ganglia

Over the past 25 years the amount of data pertaining to the GABAergic function in the basal ganglia has increased dramatically. GABA and the Basal Ganglia - From Molecules to Systems is a comprehensive review of the current state-of-the-art of knowledge about the neuroanatomy, neuropharmacology and neurophysiology of the basal ganglia, focusing on its GABAergic microcircuitry. It serves as a complete reference to the body of knowledge about the basal ganglia, its constituent neurons, and their interconnections. This volume is designed to serve as a convenient all-in-one review and reference for experienced basal ganglia researchers as well as an introduction to the functional organization of the basal ganglia and its GABAergic circuitry for students and researchers new to the field.

* Reviews the anatomy, physiology and pharmacology of the basal ganglia itself in addition to focusing on the GABAergic circuitry of the basal ganglia
* Authors of each chapter leading internationally acclaimed experts in basal ganglia research

I. FUNDAMENTALS OF GABA IN THE BASAL GANGLIA
Basal Ganglia Macrocircuits.
GABA: Homeostatic and pharmacological aspects.
GABAA receptors: structure and function in the basal ganglia.
GABAB receptors: structure and function.
The cellular, molecular and ionic basis of GABAA receptor signalling.

II. GABAERGIC MICROCIRCUITS OF THE BASAL GANGLIA
GABAergic inhibition in the neostriatum.
Globus Pallidus external segment.
Globus pallidus internal segment.
The pars reticulata of the substantia nigra: a window to basal ganglia output.
GABAergic control of the subthalamic nucleus.
GABAergic control of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons.
GABAergic output of the basal ganglia.

III. GABAERGIC NEUROTRANSMISSION IN THE BASL GANGLIA
Localization of GABA receptors in the basal ganglia.
Presynaptic modulation of GABA release in the basal ganglia.
Development of striatal fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons.
Co-localization of GABA with other neuroactive substances in the basal ganglia.

IV. SYSTEMS LEVEL ASPECTS OF GABA IN THE BASAL GANGLIA
GABAerigc circuits in the basal ganglia and movement disorders.
Simulation of GABA function in the basal ganglia: computational models of GABAergic mechanisms in basal ganglie function.

V. EPILOGUE