Functional dichotomy in the external globus pallidus

The external globus pallidus (GPe) is a key component of the basal ganglia, a network of brain regions critical for motor control and the learning of routine behaviours. It has long been thought that the neurons of the GPe are a relatively homogenous population, but recent evidence suggests that it is instead made up of dichotomous neuronal groups. Dr Magill will address the necessity for and nature of this dichotomy in the GPe. In elucidating the substrates for GPe neuron specialisation at different scales of function, he aims to provide explanations in the context of whole-brain function and behaviour.