THE FUNCTION OF THE NUCLEUS SUPRATRIGEMINALIS

Abstract

Responses of cells of the nucleus supratrigeminalis were examined using stainless steel micro-electrodes for extracellular recording. All of the units studied responded to movements of the mandible and pressure stimulation of intraoral structures. There were three functional categories of cells: (1) those activated by pressure stimulation of intraoral peripheral fields; teeth, gingiva, palate, tongue, (2) those activated by jaw-opening movements, and (3) those inhibited by jaw opening. Many units showed convergence of afferent inflow from several types of peripheral stimulation. The responses of units in the supratrigeminal nucleus closely resemble responses attributed to spinal interneurons. It is likely that cells of the nucleus participate in trigeminal motor reflexes.