The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word EFFERENT
E
F
F
E
R
E
N
T
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "a nerve of sorts" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case a nerve of sorts = efferent.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does EFFERENT mean?
EFFERENT noun- A duct or stream that carries away.
- Carrying away from.
- Carried outward.