Striatal interneurons are local circuit [neurons](/entities/neurons) within the striatum (caudate nucleus and putamen) that modulate the activity of medium spiny neurons (MSNs), the principal projection neurons of the basal ganglia. These interneurons play critical roles in shaping striatal output, regulating movement selection, and integrating sensory and cognitive information. They are classified into several distinct types based on their neurochemical markers, morphological features, and physiological properties. [@kreitzer2011]
Overview
The striatum is the primary input nucleus of the basal ganglia, receiving glutamatergic input from the [cortex](/brain-regions/cortex) and thalamus, dopaminergic input from the substantia nigra, and cholinergic input from the pedunculopontine nucleus. Within this complex network, striatal interneurons provide crucial local modulation, fine-tuning the excitatory inputs and shaping the final output of MSNs. [@tepper2010]
Striatal interneurons are local circuit [neurons](/entities/neurons) within the striatum (caudate nucleus and putamen) that modulate the activity of medium spiny neurons (MSNs), the principal projection neurons of the basal ganglia. These interneurons play critical roles in shaping striatal output, regulating movement selection, and integrating sensory and cognitive information. They are classified into several distinct types based on their neurochemical markers, morphological features, and physiological properties. [@kreitzer2011]
Overview
The striatum is the primary input nucleus of the basal ganglia, receiving glutamatergic input from the [cortex](/brain-regions/cortex) and thalamus, dopaminergic input from the substantia nigra, and cholinergic input from the pedunculopontine nucleus. Within this complex network, striatal interneurons provide crucial local modulation, fine-tuning the excitatory inputs and shaping the final output of MSNs. [@tepper2010]
Unlike the projection neurons (MSNs), which are GABAergic and account for approximately 90-95% of striatal neurons, interneurons represent a heterogeneous population that uses various neurotransmitters including GABA, [acetylcholine](/entities/acetylcholine), and neuropeptides. These cells are essential for the proper functioning of striatal circuits and are implicated in several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. [@gittis2012]
The study of Striatal Interneurons has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
Brain Atlas Resources
[Allen Human Brain Atlas - Striatal Interneurons Expression](https://human.brain-map.org/microarray/search/show?search_term=Striatal%20Interneurons)