Correct spelling for the English word "Voits nucleus" is [vˈɔ͡ɪts njˈuːklɪəs], [vˈɔɪts njˈuːklɪəs], [v_ˈɔɪ_t_s n_j_ˈuː_k_l_ɪ__ə_s] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Voit's nucleus, also known as Nucleus prepositus hypoglossi, is a small nucleus located in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in coordinating eye movements. It is named after German physiologist Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig Voit, who first described it in the late 19th century.
Voit's nucleus is located in the medulla oblongata, specifically in the rostral portion of the lateral vestibular nucleus complex. It receives inputs from the vestibular apparatus (which detects head movements), the optic system, and the ocular motor system.
The main function of Voit's nucleus is to integrate information from these different sources and provide appropriate signals to the ocular motor nuclei, which control the movements of the eye. It is particularly involved in the yoking movement of the eyes, which allows coordinated eye movement in response to changes in head position or gaze direction.
Damage to Voit's nucleus can result in a variety of eye movement disorders, including unilateral or bilateral gaze-evoked nystagmus (involuntary eye oscillations), impaired smooth pursuit movements (tracking moving objects), and disruption of the vestibulo-ocular reflex (maintaining stable vision while the head is moving).
In summary, Voit's nucleus is a small brainstem nucleus involved in coordinating eye movements by integrating inputs from the vestibular apparatus, optic system, and ocular motor system. Its proper functioning is crucial for maintaining normal eye movements and visual stability.