Dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve

Dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve

Dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve, as seen in a cross-section of the medulla oblongata. (Dorsal nucleus of vagus nerve is labeled at center right.)

The Dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve (or posterior nucleus of vagus) is a cranial nerve nucleus located in the medulla oblongata. It is responsible for the unconscious body procedures, such as maintaining heart rate and food digestion. It is one of the four vagal nuclei in the medulla that participate in the autonomic regulation and control of the body.

Structure

The dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve is located in the medulla oblongata, near the midline, posterior to the hypoglossal nucleus. It is a collection of visceral motor neurons, which send parasympathetic fibers to the heart, lungs, and the alimentary tract down to the first third of the transverse colon via the vagus nerve.

Function

The dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve is involved in the regulation of a variety of visceral functions. It sends parasympathetic output to the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. This output is responsible for the regulation of heart rate, peristalsis in the gut, and certain reflex actions such as coughing, sneezing, swallowing, and vomiting.

Clinical significance

Damage to the dorsal nucleus of the vagus nerve can result in a variety of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, loss of voice, or a decrease in heart rate. It can also lead to gastroparesis, a condition in which the muscles in the stomach do not function properly.

See also

• Vagus nerve
• Medulla oblongata
• Cranial nerve nucleus
• Autonomic nervous system

External links

• Anatomy Atlases - Illustrated Encyclopedia of Human Anatomic Variation: Opus V: Nervous System: Cranial Nerves and Ganglia: Vagus Nerve