The role of the cerebellum in the formation and functioning of reading

Abstract

The cerebellum is traditionally thought to control coordinated movements, but it is also involved in cognitive functions. Specifically, the posterior lateral part of the right cerebellum is involved in speech functions due to its anatomical connections with the dominant speech center in the left frontal lobe (in right-handed individuals), as well as with the temporal and parietal associative areas. Studies suggest that the role of the cerebellum in working and long-term memory, as well as speech functions, is primarily explained by the activation of the cortico-cerebellar network. Therefore, during reading, the cerebellum acts as a modulator of various brain networks. Studies of the cerebellum's role in reading are essential for optimizing the reading learning process and contribute to fundamental understanding of cognitive processes. Here we systematically review the latest data on the cerebellum's role in reading and other cognitive functions, summarizing the results of MRI, fMRI, PET studies, and clinical data on reading skill acquisition.