Baroreceptors located in the carotid sinuses transmit information to the medulla via which cranial nerve?

The correct choice is the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), as this cranial nerve is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the baroreceptors located in the carotid sinuses to the central nervous system, specifically to the medulla oblongata.

Baroreceptors are specialized stretch receptors that detect changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, the baroreceptors are activated, sending signals through the glossopharyngeal nerve. This pathway plays a crucial role in the autonomic regulation of blood pressure by mediating reflexes that adjust heart rate and systemic vascular resistance.

The vagus nerve (CN X) is primarily involved in parasympathetic control of the heart and other organs but does not transmit baroreceptor signals from the carotid sinus. The spinal accessory nerve (CN XI) innervates certain neck muscles but is not involved in baroreception. The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) primarily controls tongue movements and also does not play a role in the regulation of blood pressure. Hence, the glossopharyngeal nerve is the accurate answer for the transmission of information from the carotid sinus baroreceptors to the medulla.