Contribution of Electrophysiological Studies to Cerebellar Physiology

Abstract

Electrical stimulation and the recording of electrical potentials have made important contributions to the classic formulations of cerebellar function. These electrical methods also have contributed to a re-appraisal, now underway, of the cerebellar role in the human brain. Beyond its accepted role in motor function, the cerebellum seems to contribute to some nonmotor functions. It is now known to communicate with the prefrontal cortex as well as with the motor cortex of the frontal lobe, and it seems to be involved in some prefrontal cognitive and language functions as well as in motor function. Investigations of cerebellar involvement in such functions are now being carried out, with encouraging results. If confirmed by further clinical evidence, this broader concept of cerebellar function would explain the mystery of why the most lateral parts of the cerebellum enlarged dramatically in the human brain, concomitantly with the enlargement of the cerebral association areas.