Cerebellum and Cognitive Functions

The cerebellum, traditionally known for its pivotal role in motor control, has recently emerged as a key player in diverse cognitive functions. These encompass language, working memory, perception, executive functions, behavioral control, and social cognition. While the conventional perspective implicates that the cerebellum collaborates with brain regions conventionally tied to cognitive processes—such as the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and ventral tegmental area—a mounting body of research, including clinical, pathological, neurophysiological, and functional neuroimaging findings, underscores a direct link between the cerebellum and cognitive functions. Given that cognitive impairment stands out as a prevalent and challenging symptom in neurodegenerative diseases and aging-related diseases, a deeper comprehension of the intricate connections between the cerebellum and cognitive functions holds potential implications for innovative treatments.

Cerebellum, cognitive functions, neurodegenerative diseases, aging