<P> The substantia nigra is a basal ganglia structure located in the midbrain that plays an important role in reward and movement . Substantia nigra is Latin for `` black substance '' , reflecting the fact that parts of the substantia nigra appear darker than neighboring areas due to high levels of neuromelanin in dopaminergic neurons . It was discovered in 1784 by Félix Vicq - d'Azyr , and Samuel Thomas von Sömmerring alluded to this structure in 1791 . Parkinson 's disease is characterized by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta . </P>
<P> The substantia nigra is a basal ganglia structure located in the midbrain that plays an important role in reward and movement . Substantia nigra is Latin for `` black substance '' , reflecting the fact that parts of the substantia nigra appear darker than neighboring areas due to high levels of neuromelanin in dopaminergic neurons . It was discovered in 1784 by Félix Vicq - d'Azyr , and Samuel Thomas von Sömmerring alluded to this structure in 1791 . Parkinson 's disease is characterized by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta . </P>
what is the role of the substantia nigra
what is the role of the substantia nigra
reward and movement
reward and movement