Neural changes induced by learning a challenging perceptual-motor task.

Full Abstract

We studied the neural changes accompanying the learning of a perceptual-motor task involving polyrhythmic bimanual force production. Motor learning was characterized by an increase in stability of performance. To assess after-effects in the corresponding neural network, magnetoencophalographic and electromyographic signals were recorded and analyzed in terms of (event-related) amplitude changes and synchronization patterns. The topology of the network was first identified using a beamformer analysis, which revealed differential effects of activation in cortical areas and cerebellar hemispheres. We found event-related (de-)synchronization of beta-activity in bilateral cortical motor areas and alpha-modulations in the cerebellum. The alpha-modulation increased after learning and, simultaneously, the bilateral M1 coupling increased around the movement frequency reflecting improved motor timing. Furthermore, the inter-hemispheric gamma-synchronization between primary motor areas decreased, which may reflect a reduced attentional demand after learning.

Author information

Author/s: Houweling, S (S); Daffertshofer, A (A); van Dijk, B W (BW); Beek, P J (PJ);

Affiliation: Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands. s.houweling(-atsign-)fbw.vu.nl

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: NeuroImage (Neuroimage), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2008-Jul; vol 41 (issue 4) : pp 1395-407

Dates: Created 2008/06/16; Completed 2008/08/29;

PMID: 18485745, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

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