Identification of the superior salivatory nucleus in the cat as studied by the HRP method.

Using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) bathing of either the intermediofacial nerve or the chorda tympani, the localization of the superior salivatory nucleus that gives rise to parasympathetic fibers to the submandibular and sublingual glands was identified in the cat. The superior salivatory nucleus demonstrated by this study does not exist in the pons but does exist in the dorsal part of the reticular formation of the rostral medulla oblongata. Neurons of this nucleus were generally medium-sized and multipolar, with densely stained Nissl substance.