Non-invasive Cerebellar Stimulation: Moving Towards Clinical Applications for Cerebellar and Extra-Cerebellar Disorders

Cerebellum. 2018 Jun;17(3):259-263. doi: 10.1007/s12311-017-0908-z.

Abstract

The field of non-invasive stimulation of the cerebellum is quickly expanding. The anatomical structure of the cerebellum with a high density of neurons in the superficial layer, its electrical properties, and its participation in numerous closed-loop circuits involved in motor, cognitive, and affective operations both in children and in adults make of the cerebellum a target with very high potential for neuromodulation of both cerebellar and extra-cerebellar disorders, in neurology, psychiatry, and neurosurgery. A common research effort is required to extract the optimal parameters of stimulation and to identify how non-invasive stimulation of the cerebellum modifies cerebellar plasticity and functional connectivity in remote cortical and subcortical areas. A patient stratification should be considered.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Diseases / physiopathology
  • Brain Diseases / therapy
  • Cerebellum* / physiology
  • Cerebellum* / physiopathology
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy* / methods
  • Humans