Central Projections of the Gustatory System

Abstract

The central gustatory pathways will be discussed in a progression, beginning with the first order terminations in the medulla oblongata, through the second order relay in the thalamus, and to the terminal projections in the cerebral cortex. The analysis of these central projections will be confined to the rat, cat, and primate. In each section consideration is first given to studies related to the localization of the gustatory projections and then, where data is available, to the characteristics of single and multiunit taste responses to adequate stimulation. An attempt has been made to maintain the historical transition of ideas within each section. Finally, some of the particular methodological problems associated with the gustatory system are outlined.