The dorsal motor nucleus is part of the ___ motor system

The dorsal motor nucleus is part of the ___ motor system

• A. Somatic
• B. Visceral (parasympathetic)
• C. Skeletal motor
• D. Gross motor

Answer: (B)

The dorsal motor nucleus contains preganglionic parasympathetic neurons of the vagus nerve, placing it in the visceral (parasympathetic) motor system. This brainstem nucleus sends autonomic outflow to most thoracic and abdominal organs, promoting rest-and-digest activities such as slowing heart rate and stimulating digestion. In contrast, the somatic motor system controls skeletal muscle via motor neurons in the spinal cord and certain brainstem nuclei, not visceral organs. So this nucleus is part of the parasympathetic visceral motor pathway.

The dorsal motor nucleus contains preganglionic parasympathetic neurons of the vagus nerve, placing it in the visceral (parasympathetic) motor system. This brainstem nucleus sends autonomic outflow to most thoracic and abdominal organs, promoting rest-and-digest activities such as slowing heart rate and stimulating digestion. In contrast, the somatic motor system controls skeletal muscle via motor neurons in the spinal cord and certain brainstem nuclei, not visceral organs. So this nucleus is part of the parasympathetic visceral motor pathway.