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Interhemispheric connectivity between distinct motor regions as a window into bimanual coordination
1Human Motor Control Laboratory, Univ. of Tasmania, Sandy Bay Campus, Hobart, 7005 Australia. Mark.Hinder@utas.edu.au
Journal of Neurophysiology
|December 2, 2011
Summary
Coordinated bimanual movement relies on brain networks. Interhemispheric connectivity between primary and premotor regions impacts motor performance in bimanual tasks, as shown by transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Human Motor System
Background:
- Coordinated bimanual movement is a key human motor function.
- Brain imaging reveals extensive bilateral motor region networks involved in bimanual tasks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural correlates of motor actions.
- To determine how interhemispheric connectivity influences bimanual motor performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
- Examined a bimanual tapping task.
Main Results:
- The nature of interhemispheric connectivity between primary and premotor regions was shown to influence motor performance.
- TMS provided insights into the neural mechanisms underlying bimanual coordination.
Conclusions:
- Interhemispheric connectivity plays a crucial role in modulating motor performance during coordinated bimanual actions.
- Understanding these neural connections enhances our knowledge of the human motor system.
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