The dentate nucleus of the cerebellum projects efferent fibers via which peduncle to which contralateral structure?

• A Inferior cerebellar peduncle; ipsilateral inferior olivary nucleus
• B Middle cerebellar peduncle; contralateral pontine nuclei
• C Superior cerebellar peduncle; contralateral ventrolateral thalamus (VL nucleus) ✓
• D Superior cerebellar peduncle; ipsilateral red nucleus

Explanation

The dentate nucleus (largest deep cerebellar nucleus) projects via the superior cerebellar peduncle (brachium conjunctivum), which decussates in the midbrain tegmentum, to reach the contralateral ventrolateral (VL) thalamus and red nucleus. The VL thalamus then projects to the motor cortex, completing the cerebellocortical loop. The inferior cerebellar peduncle (restiform body) carries inputs from the spinal cord and inferior olive. The middle cerebellar peduncle carries pontocerebellar fibers (afferents, not efferents).

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.