nucleus gracilis
The nucleus gracilis is a cluster of nerve cells located in the brainstem, specifically in the medulla oblongata. It plays a crucial role in processing sensory information from the lower body, particularly touch and proprioception. The nucleus receives input from the dorsal columns of the spinal cord, which carry signals related to body position and fine touch.
Once the sensory information is processed in the nucleus gracilis, it is relayed to the thalamus, another important brain structure. From the thalamus, the information is sent to the primary somatosensory cortex in the brain, where it is interpreted, allowing for the perception of sensations from the lower body.