Gustatory Pathways - Michaels

Question 1

What nerve innervates taste buds on larynx and epiglottis?

Answer 1

Vagus nerve

Question 2

What is the relative locus for taste within the VPM?

Answer 2

It is the most medial section of the VPM

Question 3

Outline the pathway from taste buds to the cortex:

Answer 3

Taste buds -> Cranial Nerves 7,9,10 -> VPM -> Insular Cortex

Question 4

Where else do the taste fibers travel other than the insular cortex?

Answer 4

The orbitofrontal cortex - they mix with the olfactory fibers and give you flavor/taste

Question 5

2nd order neurons in the solitary nucleus also go to other places other than the VPM… what are those places? what is their purpose?

Answer 5

Hypothalamus/Amygdala - visceral response

Reticular formation - swallowing, coughing, etc

Question 6

What do pattern generators coordinate?

Answer 6

Reticular formation neurons are wired together to coordinate voluntary and involuntary activities necessary for chewing and swallowing.