Relation between the prefrontal cortex and cerebro-cerebellar functions: evidence from the results of stabilometrical indexes

Appl Neuropsychol. 2004;11(3):153-60. doi: 10.1207/s15324826an1103_3.

Abstract

The relation between prefrontal cortex and cerebro-cerebellar functions of 50 normal healthy elderly people was examined. The function of the prefrontal cortex was measured by means of a letter fluency test and the Digit Cancellation Test (D-CAT, a test for the assessment of attention). Two indexes of postural tremor measured by the stabilometer were employed for the indication of cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit functions. The results of groups consisting of participants showing higher or lower scores than the mean of the norm on the stabilometer index measurements were compared with their D-CAT and letter fluency test performances. The results showed that 2 indexes of cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit functions related to the attention function while the relation to the language function was rather weak. The results of the behavioral measures demonstrated a mutual relation between prefrontal cortex and cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit functions and strongly suggest the notion that the human brain functions as a system, which includes neocortex, subcortex, and cerebellum.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging / psychology
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cerebellum / physiology*
  • Cognition
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Skills*
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Posture
  • Prefrontal Cortex / physiology*
  • Speech*
  • Thalamus / physiology*
  • Tremor