Question

Anatomy Mini-Tutorial: The Cerebellum

Answer 1

\({\bf{Overview:}}\)
> divided into 2 cerebellar hemispheres by the vermis (made of cortex)
> each hemisphere divided into anterior/posterior lobes divided by primary fissure
- controls limbs/trunk
> contains folds (folia)
> also contains flocculnodular lobes anterior + inferior to cerebellar hemisphere
- controls balance and eye movement

Answer 2

\({\bf{Main~Functions:}}\)
- adjusts posture/equilibrium via muscle cells
- refining movements
- storing memories regarding movements via cerebral cortex, basal nuclei, brainstem

\({\bf{Cerebellar~Cortex:}}\)
- made of highly branched Purkinje cells, projects into cerebellar nuclei
> neurons transmitting sensory info synapse with the Purkinje cells
> Purkinje cells transmit motor information to cerebrum/brainstem
- arbor vitae: branching white matter of the cerebellar cortex

\({\bf{Peduncles:}}\)
- superior: link cerebellum + mesencephalon/diancephalon/cerebrum
- middle: link cerebellum + sensorimotor neurons in pons
- inferior: link cerebellum + medulla oblongata, carry cerebellar tracts from spinal cord

Answer 3

Adapted from Human Anatomy, Martini, et. al. 9th edition