What cranial nerve is responsible for taste sensation in the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

The facial nerve (CN VII) is responsible for taste sensation in the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. This nerve plays a crucial role in the gustatory system by carrying taste information from this specific area to the brain. It does this through the chorda tympani branch, which merges with the lingual nerve to innervate the taste buds located on the anterior part of the tongue.

Understanding the functions of the cranial nerves is essential in clinical practice. The trigeminal nerve (CN V) primarily provides sensation to the face and does not have a role in taste perception. The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) is responsible for taste sensation in the posterior one-third of the tongue, while the hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) is primarily involved in the control of tongue movements rather than taste. Thus, the facial nerve is specifically tasked with the taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds, making it the correct answer.