Noninvasive stimulation

Abstract

The cerebellum plays a fundamental role in movement execution and motor control in humans. Because of multiple cerebellar connections and a broad variety of motor and nonmotor functions, the field of cerebellar stimulation with noninvasive techniques has gained success among researchers in the last few years. These techniques allow investigation of the neural network noninvasively, collecting more information on cerebellar physiology and pathophysiology. Several studies have highlighted the therapeutic potential of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) - repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation of the brain - in patients with neurologic diseases. More recently, NIBS has been delivered over the human cerebellum. Cerebellar NIBS has provided interesting novel data about cerebellar physiology in humans, especially in relation to its cognitive and behavioral functions. Cerebellar NIBS is also increasingly tested in patients with ataxia, dystonia, Parkinson disease, stroke, and essential tremor. NIBS is a promising approach not only to elucidate the numerous cerebellar functions, but also to improve the management of cerebellar ataxias in children and in adults.

Keywords: NIBS; ataxia; cerebellar rTMS; cerebellar tDCS; neuromodulation.