The ventral tegmental area (VTA) and its projections (VTA system) are central to understanding the neurobiology of dopamine (DA) systems. This review provides a concise summary of the current consensus on the anatomy and connectivity of the VTA, emphasizing its role in the integration of information and modulation of behavior. The VTA is a heterogeneous group of neurons located in the midbrain, adjacent to the midline. It is divided into several nuclei, including the A10 (VTA) and A9 (substantia nigra), which are involved in different pathways. The VTA is connected to various brain regions, including the striatum, limbic system, and cortex, through distinct pathways such as the mesostriatal, mesolimbic, and mesocortical pathways. These pathways are crucial for functions such as reward, motivation, and cognition. The VTA is also connected to the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and learning. The VTA's connectivity is complex, with both intrinsic and extrinsic connections. The VTA is involved in the regulation of various behaviors, and its dysfunction is associated with disorders such as Parkinson's disease and addiction. The study of the VTA has evolved significantly over the past 25 years, with advances in techniques such as axonal transport and immunocytochemistry providing new insights into its structure and function. The VTA's role in the brain is still being explored, and further research is needed to fully understand its contributions to neural function and behavior.The ventral tegmental area (VTA) and its projections (VTA system) are central to understanding the neurobiology of dopamine (DA) systems. This review provides a concise summary of the current consensus on the anatomy and connectivity of the VTA, emphasizing its role in the integration of information and modulation of behavior. The VTA is a heterogeneous group of neurons located in the midbrain, adjacent to the midline. It is divided into several nuclei, including the A10 (VTA) and A9 (substantia nigra), which are involved in different pathways. The VTA is connected to various brain regions, including the striatum, limbic system, and cortex, through distinct pathways such as the mesostriatal, mesolimbic, and mesocortical pathways. These pathways are crucial for functions such as reward, motivation, and cognition. The VTA is also connected to the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and learning. The VTA's connectivity is complex, with both intrinsic and extrinsic connections. The VTA is involved in the regulation of various behaviors, and its dysfunction is associated with disorders such as Parkinson's disease and addiction. The study of the VTA has evolved significantly over the past 25 years, with advances in techniques such as axonal transport and immunocytochemistry providing new insights into its structure and function. The VTA's role in the brain is still being explored, and further research is needed to fully understand its contributions to neural function and behavior.