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Functional connectivity in the neuromuscular system underlying bimanual coordination.
Ingmar E J de Vries1, Andreas Daffertshofer1, Dick F Stegeman1,2
1Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Neurophysiology
|September 16, 2016
Summary
Neural synchrony aids bimanual coordination. Higher corticomuscular coherence links to individual muscle control, while increased intermuscular coherence supports coordinating multiple muscles during movement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Human Movement Science
Background:
- Neural synchrony is proposed to integrate sensorimotor systems for coordinated movement.
- The roles of corticomuscular and intermuscular coherence in bimanual coordination require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of corticomuscular and intermuscular coherence in bimanual coordination.
- To differentiate neural pathways underlying individual muscle control versus multi-muscle coordination.
Main Methods:
- 16 healthy participants performed a bimanual task with manipulated visual feedback sensitivity.
- Cortical activity (EEG) and bilateral hand muscle activity (HDsEMG) were recorded.
- Coordination was quantified using the synergy index (RV), and functional connectivity was assessed via corticomuscular and intermuscular coherence.
Main Results:
- The synergy index (RV) increased under high coordination conditions.
- Corticomuscular coherence (beta band) decreased with higher coordination, while intermuscular coherence (5-12 Hz) increased.
- Negative correlation between RV and corticomuscular coherence; positive correlation between RV and intermuscular coherence.
Conclusions:
- Two distinct neural pathways for bimanual coordination were identified.
- Corticomuscular coherence reflects control of individual muscles via direct corticospinal pathways.
- Intermuscular coherence reflects multi-muscle coordination through diverging pathways.
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