Fiber contribution from the mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve to the trochlear nerve in the cat: a histological quantitative study

The fiber connections between the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus and tract and the trochlear nerve root of 15 cats were examined after silver impregnation of the pontomescencephalic region of the brains. The results revealed that: (a) some of the mesencephalic root fascicles join the trochlear root, (b) some of the mesencephalic root cells contribute their processes to the trochlear root, and (c) some mesencephalic cells are found amidst the fibers of the trochlear nerve during its intrabulbar course. The fibers of the trochlear nerve were counted at certain preselected sites before and after crossing the mesencephalic nucleus. The statistical data obtained indicated that the trigeminal mesencephalic root contributes 4-10% of the fibers of the trochlear nerve, before it crosses the mesencephalic nucleus.