Anterior cochlear nucleus

Anterior cochlear nucleus (ACN) is a part of the cochlear nucleus located in the brainstem that processes auditory information received from the cochlea of the inner ear. The ACN is the first site of synaptic contact in the auditory pathway following the auditory nerve.

Anatomy

The anterior cochlear nucleus is located in the pons, a part of the brainstem. It is one of two cochlear nuclei, the other being the posterior cochlear nucleus. The ACN is further divided into two main parts: the dorsal and the ventral regions.

The cochlear nucleus is located in the brainstem.

Function

The ACN plays a crucial role in the processing of auditory information. It receives input from the cochlea via the auditory nerve, and sends output to various other auditory centers in the brain, including the superior olivary complex and the inferior colliculus. The ACN is involved in the initial processing of auditory information, including the determination of sound location and pitch.

Clinical significance

Damage to the ACN can result in a variety of auditory deficits, including hearing loss and tinnitus. It can also be involved in certain neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and stroke.

See also

• Cochlear nuclei
• Auditory system
• Auditory pathway