Inferior oblique muscle of eye is supplied by
**Core Concept**
The inferior oblique muscle is one of the extraocular muscles responsible for controlling eye movements. It originates from the anterior part of the maxillary bone and inserts into the sclera of the eye, playing a crucial role in rotating the eyeball.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is the nerve that innervates the inferior oblique muscle. The inferior oblique muscle is supplied by the third cranial nerve, also known as the oculomotor nerve (CN III). This nerve originates from the midbrain and has multiple branches that control various extraocular muscles, including the inferior oblique. The oculomotor nerve stimulates the inferior oblique muscle to contract, which results in the rotation of the eyeball.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the trochlear nerve (CN IV) primarily innervates the superior oblique muscle, not the inferior oblique muscle.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the abducens nerve (CN VI) primarily innervates the lateral rectus muscle, not the inferior oblique muscle.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because the trigeminal nerve (CN V) primarily supplies sensory and motor innervation to the face, not the extraocular muscles.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the extraocular muscles are innervated by three cranial nerves: CN III (oculomotor nerve), CN IV (trochlear nerve), and CN VI (abducens nerve). This knowledge is crucial for diagnosing and managing oculomotor nerve palsies.
**Correct Answer:** C. Oculomotor nerve (CN III)