Neural correlates of developmental coordination disorder: a review of hypotheses
Jill G Zwicker1, Cheryl Missiuna, Lara A Boyd
1Faculty of Medicine, Rehabilitation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. jzwicker@interchange.ubc.ca
Insights
Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) affects motor skills in children. Research suggests potential brain links, particularly the cerebellum, but more neuroimaging studies are needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) impacts 5-6% of school-aged children, causing significant motor coordination deficits.
- DCD frequently co-occurs with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), speech/language impairments, and reading disabilities.
- The exact causes and neural underpinnings of DCD remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review existing literature on the hypothesized neural correlates of DCD.
- To evaluate evidence supporting or refuting specific brain regions implicated in DCD.
- To propose future research directions for a better understanding of DCD's etiology.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating potential neuropathological sources.
- Examination of neuroimaging and behavioral research findings.
Main Results:
- The cerebellum is frequently implicated in DCD, with comorbidities suggesting cerebellar dysfunction.
- Other potential neural correlates include the parietal lobe, corpus callosum, and basal ganglia.
- The heterogeneity of DCD suggests that cerebellar dysfunction alone may not fully explain the disorder.
Conclusions:
- While the cerebellum is a likely key area, other brain regions may also contribute to DCD.
- Further neuroimaging studies and behavioral investigations of motor learning are crucial.
- Enhanced understanding of DCD's neural basis is essential for improved diagnosis and intervention.
Abstract:
Affecting 5% to 6% of school-age children, developmental coordination disorder is characterized by a marked impairment of motor coordination that significantly interferes with activities of daily living and academic achievement. Little is known about the etiology of developmental coordination disorder, but the disorder often coexists with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), speech/language impairment, and/or reading disability. This comprehensive review examines the literature supporting or refuting hypothesized neural correlates of developmental coordination disorder and suggests directions for future research. Potential sources of neuropathology include the cerebellum, parietal lobe, corpus callosum, and basal ganglia. Comorbidities and deficits associated with developmental coordination disorder are highly suggestive of cerebellar dysfunction; yet, given the heterogeneity of this disorder, it is likely that the cerebellum is not the only neural correlate. Neuroimaging studies and behavioral investigations of learning-related change in motor behavior are the next critical step in enhancing our understanding of developmental coordination disorder.
