Intrinsic brain network dynamics modulated by neural stimulation to cerebellum

The cerebellum, with its distinctive structure and widespread cortical connections, plays a central role in cortical network dynamics that support higher cognition. Here, using resting-state fMRI connectivity, we evaluate how inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to the right Crus I of the cerebellum alters dynamic network reconfigurations across the cortex. Dynamic community detection revealed three main effects: (a) network flexibility, the tendency of nodes to switch module affiliations, increased after stimulation; (b) the temporal evolution of module allegiances varied strongly across individuals, lacking a common functional prototype; and (c) cerebellar nodes acted as integrators linking distinct network modules. These results highlight the cerebellum's pivotal role in reshaping cortical integration and segregation, supporting its proposed function in coordinating distributed neural systems underlying cognition and adaptive behavior.