Nucleus of solitary tract

Nuclei of solitary tract are a series of nuclei forming a vertical column of grey matter embedded in the medulla oblongata. Through the center of the NTS runs the solitary tract, a white bundle of nerve fibers, including fibers from the facial, glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, that innervate the NTS. The NTS projects to, among other regions, the reticular formation, parasympathetic preganglionic neurons, hypothalamus and thalamus, forming circuits that contribute to autonomic regulation. Cells along the length of the NTS are arranged roughly in accordance with function; for instance, cells involved in taste are located in the higher, more forward part, while those receiving information from cardio-respiratory and gastrointestinal processes are found in the lower, more posterior part.