Mini-review: Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and the Cerebellum

Oscillatory activity in the cerebellum and linked networks is an important aspect of neuronal processing and functional implementation of behavior. So far, it was challenging to quantify and study cerebellar oscillatory signatures in human neuroscience due to the constraints of non-invasive cerebellar electrophysiological recording and interventional techniques. The emerging cerebellar transcranial alternating current stimulation technique (CB-tACS) is a promising tool, which may partially overcome this challenge and provides an exciting non-invasive opportunity to better understand cerebellar physiology. Several studies have successfully demonstrated that CB-tACS can modulate the cerebellar outflow and cerebellum-linked behavior. In the present narrative review, we summarize current studies employing the CB-tACS approach and discuss open research questions. Hereby, we aim to provide an overview on this emerging electrophysiological technique and strive to promote future research in the field. CB-tACS will contribute in the further deciphering of cerebellar oscillatory signatures and its role for motor, cognitive, or affective functions. In long term, CB-tACS could develop into a therapeutic tool for retuning disturbed oscillatory activity in cerebellar networks underlying brain disorders.

Automated summary

This narrative review summarizes current studies employing the cerebellar transcranial alternating current stimulation technique (CB-tACS) and discusses open research questions. CB-tACS may contribute to the understanding of cerebellar oscillatory signatures and their role in motor, cognitive, or affective functions. In the long term, CB-tACS could develop into a therapeutic tool for retuning disturbed oscillatory activity in cerebellar networks underlying brain disorders.