Efficacy of cerebellar cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation for post-stroke aphasia: A randomized controlled trial

作者：Xiaoyi Xu, Shuping Chen, Zifan Li, Lijie Zhang, Tianjin Pan, Siying Long, Tingting Yang, Meng Li, Qianru Li, Na Chen, Shangjie Chen, Qing Zeng · 发表于：Clinical Neurophysiology Practice · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1016/j.cnp.2025.10.001 · 被引用次数：4 · 研究领域：Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies、Neurobiology of Language and Bilingualism、Spatial Neglect and Hemispheric Dysfunction

Objective: Growing evidence highlights the cerebellum, particularly the right posterior lobule, in advanced language processes such as fluency, syntax, and phonological memory. However, its specific role in post-stroke aphasia recovery-especially its modulation of cortical networks and functional connectivity (FC)-remains unclear, which limits targeted intreventions. Methods: Sixteen post-stroke aphasia patients were randomized to receive either cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with speech therapy or sham stimulation with therapy. Language performance was assessed via the Chinese Standard Aphasia Scale (CRRCAE), and brain activation was monitored using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Results: Both groups showed significant CRRCAE score improvements post-treatment (P < 0.05), without between-group differences (P > 0.05). FC reductions were noted across several interhemispheric and right-hemispheric pathways, while increased FC was observed in left hemisphere language-related areas. Conclusion: After baseline adjustment, the intervention group showed superior gains. Cerebellar tDCS modulates FC, suggesting a potential mechanism for enhancing aphasia recovery. Significance: Findings support the cerebellum as a promising neuromodulation target for post-stroke aphasia treatment.