Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 23, 2026

Facial Nerve Axotomy in Mice: A Model to Study Motoneuron Response to Injury
Published on: February 23, 2015
[Experimental study of the secretory motor function of the facial nerve]
Abstract:
An experimental study was done on dogs after cutting or crushing the facial nerve centrally at the level of the geniculate ganglion and peripherally at the level of the stylomastoïd foramen. In cases of central lesion of the facial nerve: The histological and histochemical study, after two weeks, showed atrophic changes in the lacrimal, nasal and submandibular glands, with a decrease in the size and number of acini, an increase in the interlobular connective tissue and excess fat cells in the lacrimal glands. The biochemical study revealed a decrease in the amount of the secretions with an increase their content of protein, mucin and amylase in the paralysed side compared to the normal. In cases of peripheral of the facial nerve: No histological histochemical or biochemical changes were found.
Related Concept Videos
Muscles for Facial Expressions
Cranial Nerves: Overview and Anatomy
Cranial Nerves: Types Part I
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
Cranial Nerves: Types Part II
Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII)
Cranial nerve VII, or the facial nerve,...
Cranial Part of Parasympathetic Division
The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) alone accounts for approximately 75...

