In the nigrostriatal pathway, brainstem cells in the substantia nigra send fibers to the forebrain cells in the corpus striatum. The primary function of this pathway is the initiation and modulation of movement of the limbs and body.

Pathology

Death of substantia nigra cells causes decreased dopamine in the corpus striatum, which leads to symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Dopamine agonists, such as bromocriptine or pergolide, increase activity at dopamine synapses and reduce symptoms of Parkinson's disease.