Functional heterogeneity with structural homogeneity: How does the cerebellum operate?

Abstract

The premise explored in this target article is that the function of the cerebellum is best understood in terms of the operation it performs across its structurally homogeneous subdivisions. The functional heterogeneity sometimes ascribed to these different regions reflects the multiplicity of functions subserved by the central targets receiving the outputs of different cerebellar regions. Recent studies from our own laboratory and others suggest that the functional unit of the cerebellum is the sagittal zone. It is hypothesized that the climbing fiber system produces a short-lasting modification in the gain of Purkinje cell responses to its other principal afferent input, the mossy fiber-granule cell-parallel fiber system. Because the climbing fiber inputs to sagittally aligned Purkinje cells can be activated under functionally specific conditions, these afferents could select populations of Purkinje neurons that would be most highly modulated by mossy fiber inputs responding to the same conditions. These operations may be critical for the on-line integration of inputs characterizing external target space with features of the intended movement, proprioceptive and kinesthetic cues, and the body image.