Evaluation of a Cerebellar Arm Control Model Using Primate Neuronal Recordings

Motivation: It has been long recognized that the cerebellum is critically involved in natural movement control and motor adaptation in virtually all vertebrates [2]. Moreover, cerebellar structure is very similar across species suggesting that the organ performs fundamental computations. Generally speaking, the cerebellum is considered a stabilizer, modulator or coordinator of movement. Cerebellar dysfunction results in marked clumsiness (as seen with excess alcohol ingestion), tremor and major impairments in motor learning. However, the precise mechanism of its control is not clear. A detailed understanding of cerebellar operation would presumably yield insights into both normal and pathological human motor function, as well as into possible designs for robust, adaptable and otherwise lifelike robot control systems.