Neural changes induced by learning a challenging perceptual-motor task

• Published in: NeuroImage (Orlando, Fla.) Vol. 41; no. 4; pp. 1395 - 1407
• Main Authors: Houweling, S., Daffertshofer, A., van Dijk, B.W., Beek, P.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 15.07.2008; Elsevier Limited
• Subjects: Adult; Behavior; Brain; Cerebellum; Cerebellum - physiology; Data Interpretation, Statistical; Evoked Potentials - physiology; Feedback, Psychological - physiology; Female; Functional Laterality - physiology; Humans; Learning - physiology; Male; MEG; Motor cortex; Motor Skills - physiology; Motor timing; Nerve Net - physiology; Neural networks; Perception - physiology; Psychomotor Performance - physiology; Pyramidal Tracts - physiology; Studies; Synchronization; Cerebellum; Motor timing; Synchronization; Motor cortex; MEG
• ISSN: 1053-8119; 1095-9572
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2008.03.023

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 β-activity in bilateral cortical motor areas and α-modulations in the cerebellum. The α-modulation increased after learning and, simultaneously, the bilateral M1 coupling increased around the movement frequency reflecting improved motor timing. Furthermore, the inter-hemispheric γ-synchronization between primary motor areas decreased, which may reflect a reduced attentional demand after learning.