Nerve Glossopharyngeal

The glossopharyngeus nerve (lat. n. glossopharyngeus) is a cranial nerve that innervates the tongue, pharynx and salivary glands. It belongs to the mixed nerves, as it contains both motor and sensory fibers.

The motor fibers of the glossopharyngeal nerve innervate the muscles of the tongue and pharynx involved in the act of swallowing. Sensory fibers transmit general sensation from the mucous membrane of the tongue, tonsils, soft palate and upper part of the pharynx.

The glossopharyngeal nerve also contains taste fibers that innervate the taste buds of the posterior third of the tongue. Impaired conduction along this nerve leads to loss of taste sensitivity in the corresponding area.

In addition, the glossopharyngeal nerve innervates the parotid salivary gland, stimulating saliva production. Nerve damage can result in decreased salivary flow on the affected side.

Thus, the glossopharyngeal nerve plays an important role in the innervation of the organs of the oral cavity and pharynx, providing them with motor and sensory innervation.