Which basal ganglia pathways use glutamate instead of GABA?

While most communication within the basal ganglia relies on the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), there are specific exceptions that utilize the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate.1

The primary basal ganglia pathway that uses glutamate is the projection from the subthalamic nucleus. Additionally, the striatum receives significant excitatory input from the cerebral cortex via corticostriate fibers, which also utilize glutamate as their neurotransmitter.12