What is nucleus dorsalis of clarke?

The nucleus dorsalis of Clarke is a group of neurons located in the posterior part of the spinal cord, specifically in the intermediate gray matter of the thoracic and upper lumbar segments. It is also known as Clarke's column. The neurons in this nucleus give rise to the dorsal spinocerebellar tract (DSCT), which is responsible for conveying proprioceptive information from the lower extremities to the cerebellum.

The neurons in the nucleus dorsalis of Clarke have very long dendrites that extend into the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. They receive input from primary sensory neurons that carry information from muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs. This input is integrated by the neurons in the nucleus dorsalis of Clarke and then transmitted to the cerebellum via the DSCT.

Damage or degeneration of the nucleus dorsalis of Clarke can result in a loss of proprioception and coordination of movement, which is commonly seen in conditions such as Friedreich's ataxia.