Which Structure(s) of the Medulla Oblongata Passes Somatic Sensory Information

Question

Which structure(s) of the medulla oblongata passes somatic sensory information to the thalamus?
A) olivary nuclei
B) cuneate nucleus and gracile nucleus
C) reticular formation
D) respiratory rhythmicity centers
E) cardiovascular centers

Accepted Answer

The cuneate nucleus and gracile nucleus are both sensory nuclei located in the medulla oblongata that receive somatic sensory information from the upper and lower body, respectively, and pass this information to the thalamus. The olivary nuclei are involved in motor coordination and learning, the reticular formation is involved in multiple functions including sleep and arousal, and the respiratory and cardiovascular centers control vital functions related to breathing and blood pressure.