Where is the subthalamic nucleus located in relation to the thalamus?

The subthalamic nucleus is indeed located ventral to the thalamus. This structure is part of the basal ganglia circuitry and plays a crucial role in regulating motor control. Its anatomical positioning is significant because it lies beneath the thalamus, which is a key relay center for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex. This positioning allows the subthalamic nucleus to interact closely with other important structures, such as the globus pallidus and substantia nigra, facilitating the modulation of motor output.

Understanding this spatial relationship helps clarify the functional connections within the basal ganglia, highlighting how the subthalamic nucleus influences the motor pathways that pass through the thalamus.