Post-switching beta synchronization reveals concomitant sensory reafferences and active inhibition processes

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Post-movement beta synchronization (PMBS) is implicated in active inhibition and sensory feedback.
• Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of PMBS in complex motor tasks is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the temporal and spatial dynamics of PMBS during a multi-limb coordination task.
• To differentiate the roles of PMBS in active inhibition versus sensory reafference.

Main Methods:

• Utilized time-frequency and source estimation analyses to examine post-switching beta synchronization.
• Participants performed an auditory-paced bimanual tapping task with selective stopping (Switch) or continuation (Continue) conditions.

Main Results:

• PMBS was significantly higher in the Switch condition compared to the Continue condition.
• Maximal PMBS differences were observed in the right central region (14-30 Hz) and left central region (22-26 Hz).
• Source estimation localized these effects to the right pre-frontal cortex (broad-band) and left parietal cortex (restricted-band).

Conclusions:

• Demonstrates simultaneous PMBS with distinct functions in different brain regions and frequency bands.
• Left parietal PMBS (22-26 Hz) may relate to sensory reafference from the right hand.
• Right pre-frontal PMBS (14-30 Hz) likely reflects active inhibition of the left hand.
• Beta oscillations serve as a marker for successful active inhibition, supported by performance correlations.