Cerebellum granule cell

Cerebellum Granule Cell

A diagram of a cerebellum granule cell

The Cerebellum Granule Cell is a type of neuron found in the cerebellum, a region of the brain that plays a significant role in motor control. These cells are the smallest and most numerous neurons in the human brain, with estimates suggesting there are more than 60 billion cerebellum granule cells.

Structure

Cerebellum granule cells have a distinctive structure. They possess a small, round cell body from which four to five dendrites extend. These dendrites branch out in a T-shape and form synapses with incoming mossy fiber axons. The axon of the granule cell ascends to the molecular layer of the cerebellum, where it bifurcates to form parallel fibers.

Function

The primary function of cerebellum granule cells is to receive and process information from the peripheral nervous system before transmitting it to the Purkinje cells, the output neurons of the cerebellum. This information is then used to coordinate and fine-tune motor movements.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in cerebellum granule cells have been implicated in several neurological disorders, including ataxia, autism, and schizophrenia. Research is ongoing to further understand the role these cells play in these conditions.

See Also

• Neuron
• Cerebellum
• Purkinje cells
• Mossy fiber

External Links

• Cerebellum Granule Cell at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)