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Why is the cerebellum called "little brain"? What is its true role?
The cerebellum, which means "little brain" in Latin, was named because it is generally smaller than the brain. Despite this, the cerebellum actually plays an extremely important role in the animal nervous system, ranging from motor control to cognitive functions, and even has a significant impact on emotional regulation. Together, these functions reveal the diversity and complexity of the cerebellum. .
The location and basic structure of the cerebellum
The cerebellum is located in the posterior cranial fossa, just at the base of the brain. Its appearance, like a separate structure attached to the underside of the cerebral hemispheres, contrasts with the brain's broad, irregular folds, which also give the cerebellum's cortical surface its delicate, parallel grooves.
The cortex of the cerebellum is actually composed of a thin and tightly folded tissue, which contains different types of neurons, the most important of which include Pukinger cells and granule cells.
Main functions of cerebellum
The duties of the cerebellum are mainly focused on movement coordination, precision and timing. It does not actively initiate any movement, but it can fine-tune motor activities by integrating input from sensory systems.
Research shows that damage to the cerebellum can lead to impairments in fine movement, balance, posture and motor learning.
The relationship between neural structure and function
The structure of the cerebellum is neuroanatomically distinct from that of the brain. The cerebellum has a central area composed of thick white matter, in which four groups of deep cerebellar nuclei are embedded, while the cerebellar cortex is divided into three layers from outside to inside, namely the molecular layer, Pujinger layer and granular layer.
The development and learning functions of the cerebellum
In addition to directly controlling movement, the cerebellum is also essential in various motor learning. Particularly in the quest to adjust sensorimotor relationships, the cerebellum's ability to learn through synaptic plasticity is particularly prominent.
According to the theoretical model, there are two main sources of input to Pujinger cells in the cerebellum. One is from multiple weak parallel fibers, and the other is from a single powerful climbing fiber.
Regional functional differentiation of cerebellum
The cerebellum can be divided into three main regions based on its surface appearance: the anterior lobes, the posterior lobes, and the lesser reticular lobes. Although these regions are morphologically distinct, their functional distinction is more important.
Future research directions
Although the function and structure of the cerebellum have been extensively studied, many of the underlying operating mechanisms of the cerebellum are still not fully understood, especially its role in cognitive function and emotion regulation.
In discussing the function of the cerebellum, we can't help but think, since its role is so extensive, how will future scientific research reveal more unknown mysteries of the cerebellum?
