Both nuclei contain second-order neurons of the DCML, which convey fine touch and proprioceptive information from the body to the brain via the thalamus.
Both dorsal column nuclei contain synapses from afferent nerve fibers that have travelled in the spinal cord.
Neurons of the dorsal column nuclei eventually reach the midbrain and the thalamus.
The large number of neurons found there give rise to the cuneate tubercle seen on viewing the posterior aspect of the medulla on the side of the brainstem.
The dorsal column nuclei help to carry fine touch and proprioceptive information from the body to the brain.