nucleus of the solitary tract


nucleus of the solitary tract

The only brainstem nucleus of the visceral sensory column. It runs the length of the caudal hindbrain in the lateral subventricular gray matter alongside the solitary tract. At the caudal end of the hindbrain, the right and left nuclei of the solitary tract merge in the midline, just dorsal to the central canal, forming the commissural nucleus. The facial (CN VII), the glossopharyngeal (CN IX), and the vagus (CN X) nerves provide the main inputs to the nucleus, bringing information about taste, blood pressure, and blood chemistry. The nucleus then sends information throughout the hindbrain to reflex centers controlling cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal homeostasis; the nucleus is also an important source of input to the hypothalamus. Synonym: solitary nucleusSee also: nucleus