Rapid and long-lasting plasticity of input-output mapping

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Learning and Memory

Background:

• Skilled tool use relies on learning input-output maps, which define the relationship between movements and device actions.
• Understanding the adaptability and persistence of these sensorimotor maps is crucial for comprehending motor learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if extensive practice on a specific input-output map hinders the formation of new maps.
• To determine if modified or newly formed input-output maps persist after a period of no performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a visuo-motor rotation paradigm with humans and monkeys.
• Subjects performed wrist movements to control a cursor, with gradual alterations to the movement-cursor relationship.
• Assessed adaptation and retention of the modified map after practice and performance gaps.

Main Results:

• Both humans and monkeys rapidly adapted their motor output to compensate for visuo-motor rotation, despite prior extensive practice.
• Monkeys retained the modified map after a 2-week gap; humans retained it after over a year.

Conclusions:

• Sensorimotor performance demonstrates significant flexibility, readily adapting to new input-output mappings.
• Even brief exposure to altered sensorimotor relationships induces long-lasting changes in motor behavior.