Cerebellum Predicts Action Sensory Impact, Prevents Self-Tickling

Cerebellum Predicts Sensory Impact of Our Actions, Preventing Self-Tickling

Photo via Pexels

Discovery

Curated by Surfaced Editorial·Neuroscience·2 min read

Scientists at University College London revealed that the cerebellum acts as a sophisticated "prediction machine," constantly anticipating the sensory consequences of our own movements. They found that this brain region generates precise internal predictions of sensations like touch or sound before they even occur, effectively filtering out expected self-generated sensory input. Using fMRI and behavioral tasks, researchers showed that when these predictions are disrupted, individuals can, for instance, tickle themselves. This internal model helps us distinguish between self-generated and external sensations, making the world feel stable. This breakthrough was published in Science in 2017.

Why It’s Fascinating

This discovery sheds light on a fundamental mechanism of sensory processing, explaining why we can't tickle ourselves and how our brains maintain a coherent perception of reality amidst constant self-movement. It overturns simpler models of sensory processing that treated all sensory input equally. Understanding this cerebellar prediction mechanism could lead to new treatments for conditions involving sensory processing issues, such as schizophrenia or autism, potentially within a decade. It's like your brain has a built-in "mute button" for your own actions, ensuring you only pay attention to the truly unexpected. Individuals with sensory processing disorders and neuroscientists will find this crucial. How does this predictive power develop, and can it be enhanced or impaired?

Read full article at science.org →

Explore

f in r/✉

←Brain Uses "Social GPS" to Map Relationships, Like Physical Space Learning a New Language Literally Rewires Brain, Even in Adulthood→

From Hidden Gem · Tool · Future Tech · Product

Hidden Gem

HyperWrite

HyperWrite is an AI-powered writing assistant developed by a startup aiming to augment human creativity and productivity. Its core feature is generating…

Tool

ChatGPT Plus

ChatGPT Plus is the premium, subscription-based version of OpenAI's large language model, ChatGPT, offering enhanced access, faster response times, and…

Future Tech

Fusion-Fission Hybrid Reactors

Fusion-Fission Hybrid Reactors combine a fusion core (which acts as a powerful neutron source) with a subcritical fission blanket, leveraging fusion's neutron…

Product

PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Feeder

The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Feeder is a reliable solution for managing your pet's dietary needs with precision and ease. It allows you to…

Why It’s Fascinating