Contains descending fibers from the cerebral cortex that pass through the internal capsule, cerebral peduncle, and pons before reaching the pyramids. Fibers in the pyramid undergo partial crossing in the motor decussation caudal to this level. Receives cortical input and projects to the cerebellum via the stria medullaris and restiform body. Homologous to pontine nuclei. Axons of neurons in the inferior olivary complex.
Fibers arise from both olivary complexes but primarily from the contralateral complex.
Olivocerebellar fibers constitute the major component of the restiform body. Enters the lateral surface of the pons lateral and dorsal to the restiform body. Projects upon the dorsal and ventral cochlear nuclei. Lesions in the cochlear nerve result in ipsilateral loss of hearing. Receives axons of the cochlear nerve originating in the upper turns of the cochlea.