1. Pontine nuclei: These are a group of nuclei located in the middle of the pons. They are involved in various functions, including relaying motor signals from the cerebral cortex to the cerebellum, controlling eye movements, and regulating sleep-wake cycles.
2. Trigeminal nuclei: The trigeminal nerve has sensory and motor nuclei located in the pons. The sensory nuclei receive sensory information from the face, while the motor nuclei control the muscles of mastication (chewing).
3. Abducens nucleus: This nucleus is responsible for controlling the lateral rectus muscle of the eye, which is involved in abduction (moving the eye outward).
4. Facial nucleus: The facial nucleus controls the muscles of facial expression.
5. Vestibular nuclei: These nuclei are involved in processing sensory information related to balance and spatial orientation from the inner ear.
6. Superior olivary nucleus: This nucleus is involved in processing auditory information and sound localization.
7. Raphe nuclei: The raphe nuclei are a group of nuclei that produce serotonin and are involved in regulating mood, sleep, and pain perception.
8. Locus coeruleus: This nucleus produces norepinephrine and is involved in regulating attention and arousal.