Glossary Index
Gracile nucleus
Nucleus containing the second-order sensory neurons that relay mechanosensory information from peripheral receptors in the lower body to the thalamus via the medial lemniscus; located in the lower medulla (also called the "nucleus gracilis"). The gracile nucleus also relays visceral pain information from second-order neurons in the central spinal cord to the thalamus.
Location:
caudal medulla
Function:
relays mechanosensory signals for upper extremities (and pain for abdominal viscera)
See Also:
Cuneate nucleus