Autism-Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Prefrontal Cortical-Cerebellar Interaction Deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Detlef H Heck and James W Howell

This review reveals possible explanations for the link between cerebellar neuropathology and cognitive disorders, with an emphasis on autism and schizophrenia. There is a growing body of evidence showing these two conditions to be related. The loss of Purkinje cells, the principal neurons of the cerebellar cortex, is one of the most consistent neuropathologies found in autistic brains. Cerebellar neurophathologies are a common finding in schizophrenia, as well. The cerebellum has long been considered a pure motor structure, and it’s involvement in cognitive disorders remained obscure. The cognitive deficits typically associated with autism and schizophrenia strongly implicate prefrontal cerebral cortical pathology. We review recent findings, which provide new insights into suggest possible neuronal mechanisms through which the cerebellum might interact with the prefrontal cortex during cognitive tasks. In addition to exploring the link between autism and schizophrenia, we point out several opportunities for further study, including the selective pruning of nerve cells and collaterals during development, communication systems between the prefrontal cortex and the cerebellum, exploration of the genome, effects of autism and schizophrenia on intelligence, and a focus on the epidemiology of autism.