Nucleus basalis

The nucleus basalis (nucleus basalis of Meynert) is part of the magnocellular nuclei of basal forebrain structures. It represents a major collection of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain, principally associated with the region of the substantia innominata. Its neurons provide extensive cholinergic projections to the cerebral cortex, including association and limbic cortical areas.

Function and clinical correlate

Through these widespread projections, the nucleus basalis helps regulate cortical activation, attention, learning, and memory. Loss of its cholinergic neurons is prominent in Alzheimer disease and contributes to impaired cortical cholinergic transmission and cognitive dysfunction.