Facial nerve nucleus

Facial Nucleus

The Facial Nucleus is a cluster of neurons in the brainstem that is involved in facial expression. It is part of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which controls the muscles of facial expression.

The facial nucleus is located in the pons, part of the brainstem. Image from Gray's Anatomy.

Structure

The facial nucleus is located in the pons, a part of the brainstem. It is situated close to the midline, at the level of the lower pontine nuclei. The facial nucleus is divided into a dorsal and a ventral division, with the dorsal division controlling the muscles of the upper face and the ventral division controlling the muscles of the lower face.

Function

The facial nucleus receives input from several areas of the brain, including the cortex, the basal ganglia, and the limbic system. These inputs allow the facial nucleus to control the muscles of facial expression, enabling a wide range of facial expressions.

Clinical significance

Damage to the facial nucleus can result in facial palsy, a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. This can occur as a result of stroke, infection, or trauma.

See also

• Facial nerve
• Brainstem
• Pons
• Facial palsy