Changes in the Cyto- and Fibroarchitectonics of the Cerebellar Cortex in Rats Subjected to Extreme Physical Activity.

Simple Summary: Physical overexertion surpassing the functional capacity of the nervous system causes the hyperactivation of the neural structures of the cerebellum. In turn, it causes the depletion of intracellular resources and progressive structural changes in cerebellar cells and fibers. After the forced swimming test, animals (n = 30) had significant morphological changes in pyriform cells, granule cells, internuncial neurons, and neuroglial cells. Pronounced degeneration of granular cells was observed, manifested by their fusion into conglomerates. These changes demonstrate that neurodegeneration in the cerebellum takes place in response to physical overexertion. Physical overexertion surpassing the functional capacity of the nervous system causes the hyperactivation of the neural structures of the cerebellum. In turn, it causes the depletion of intracellular resources and progressive structural changes in cerebellar cells and fibers. These degenerative changes may lead to cerebellar dysfunction, including the worsening of coordination, balance, and motor functions. In order to maintain the health and functioning of the cerebellum and the nervous system in general, one needs to avoid physical overexertion and have enough time to recover. Three major types of Purkinje cells were identified in control group animals. After the forced swimming test, animals had significant morphological changes in pyriform cells, granule cells, internuncial neurons, and neuroglial cells. In particular, the extreme degeneration of granule cells was manifested via their fusion into conglomerates. These changes demonstrate that neurodegeneration in the cerebellum takes place in response to physical overexertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]