What cranial nerve is associated with taste from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

The cranial nerve responsible for taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue is the facial nerve. This nerve plays a crucial role in conveying taste information from the tongue to the brain. The taste buds located in the anterior portion of the tongue are primarily innervated by the chorda tympani branch of the facial nerve.

In addition to taste, the facial nerve is also involved in the control of facial expressions and provides motor innervation to the muscles of the face. Its sensory component facilitates taste perception, which is essential for flavor identification and enjoyment of food. Understanding the function of the facial nerve reinforces its significance not only in taste but also in broader sensory and motor tasks associated with the face.