Neurons of the trigeminal nucleus (200X)

The trigeminal nucleus extends throughout the brainstem, from the midbrain to the medulla, continuing into the cervical cord (where it merges with the dorsal horn cells of the spinal cord). The nucleus is divided into three parts, visible in microscopic sections of the brainstem.

This image shows some of the neurons of the spinal trigeminal nucleus. All sensory information from the face, both touch-position and pain-temperature, is sent to the trigeminal nucleus.