Continuous theta burst stimulation over the left pre-motor cortex affects sensorimotor timing accuracy and...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Sensorimotor timing and error correction are vital for everyday movements.
• The left pre-motor cortex (PMC) is hypothesized to be involved in temporal aspects of movement control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of the left PMC in sensorimotor timing and error correction.
• To examine the effects of theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (TBS) on left PMC function.

Main Methods:

• Subjects performed a sensorimotor synchronization task (SMS) with auditory pacing.
• Continuous theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (cTBS) was used to suppress left PMC activity.
• Intermittent theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (iTBS) was used to facilitate left PMC activity.
• Timing accuracy and error correction responses to phase shifts were measured.

Main Results:

• Suppression of the left PMC with cTBS reduced timing accuracy and increased tapping variability.
• cTBS led to faster return to baseline after negative phase shifts and reduced overcorrection after positive shifts.
• Facilitation with iTBS did not significantly impact timing accuracy or error correction.
• Practice improved error correction performance independently of TBS.

Conclusions:

• The left PMC plays a significant role in sensorimotor timing and error correction for both hands.
• The left PMC is likely involved in voluntary phase correction mechanisms for perceived timing shifts.