Large-scale brain systems and subcortical relationships: the vertically organized brain.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Systems Neuroscience

Background:

• The brain exhibits vertical organization crucial for cognitive and behavioral control.
• The cortico-basal ganglia and cerebro-cerebellar circuitry are key components of this organization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the vertical organization of the brain.
• To describe the roles of the cortico-basal ganglia and cerebro-cerebellar systems in cognitive and behavioral control.
• To explore the interaction of these systems with the medial temporal lobe for implicit and explicit control.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of neuroscientific studies.
• Analysis of functional roles of brain circuitry.
• Integration of findings on basal ganglia, cerebellum, and medial temporal lobe functions.

Main Results:

• The basal ganglia guide implicitly learned behaviors based on reward outcomes.
• The cerebellar-cortical network adapts sensorimotor behaviors to changing contexts.
• Together, these vertically organized systems underpin cognitive control.

Conclusions:

• Vertical brain organization, particularly cortico-basal ganglia and cerebro-cerebellar systems, is fundamental for cognitive and behavioral regulation.
• Interaction with the medial temporal lobe system is vital for both implicit and explicit cognitive control.
• Understanding these integrated systems provides insight into brain function.