MCQ – 90170

Correct Answer � B Explanation

The output of the cerebellar cortex comes from the Purkinje cells, which are the only efferent (output) neurons of the cerebellar cortex.

• Purkinje cells project their axons inhibitorily (GABAergic) to the deep cerebellar nuclei.

• These deep nuclei then serve as the main output centers of the cerebellum, projecting to:

  • The thalamus (and from there to the cerebral cortex),

  • Vestibular nuclei,

  • Red nucleus, and other brainstem structures.

Thus, while deep cerebellar nuclei are the final output stations of the cerebellum, the output from the cerebellar cortex specifically originates from Purkinje cells.

Reason to rule out Other Options:

A) Deep cerebellar nuclei

• • These are the final output stations of the entire cerebellum, not the cortex itself.

  • Receive input from Purkinje cells and send projections to extracerebellar targets.

C) Granule cells

• • These are excitatory interneurons.

  • They project to Purkinje cells via parallel fibers, but do not provide output from the cortex.

D) Stellate cells

• • Inhibitory interneurons located in the molecular layer.

  • They modulate Purkinje cell activity but do not contribute to cerebellar cortex output.