Ventral posterior nucleus

The ventral posterior nucleus is the somato-sensory relay nucleus in thalamus of the brain.

Input and output
It receives neuronal input from the medial lemniscus and trigeminothalamic tract. Outputs to the somatosensory cortex and the ascending reticuloactivation system.

Subdivisions
The ventral posterior nucleus is divided into:
 * Ventral posterolateral nucleus, which e.g. receives sensory information from the lower part of the body.
 * Ventral posteromedial nucleus, which e.g. receives sensory information from the head via the trigeminal nerve.

Function
Functions in touch, body position, pain, temperature, itch, taste, and arousal.