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Physical activity, motor performance and skill learning: a focus on primary motor cortex in healthy aging
John Cirillo1,2
1Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand. j.cirillo@auckland.ac.nz.
Experimental Brain Research
|September 9, 2021
Summary
Physical activity benefits brain health, particularly motor control areas like the primary motor cortex (M1). Understanding how exercise impacts M1 plasticity in older adults is key for healthy aging and motor function recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Aging Research
Background:
- Physical activity enhances cognitive function, but its effects on motor control areas, specifically the primary motor cortex (M1), are less understood.
- Aging is associated with reduced motor performance and potentially decreased neural plasticity in M1.
- M1 is critical for motor skill learning and recovery, yet its response to physical activity in healthy aging requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of physical activity on primary motor cortex (M1) plasticity and motor function in older adults.
- To elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying the benefits of physical activity on M1 in the context of healthy aging.
- To inform strategies for promoting healthy aging and facilitating motor recovery after neurological injury.
Main Methods:
- Review of neurophysiology of M1 in motor skill learning, focusing on human studies.
- Assessment of existing literature on physical activity's effects on motor function and M1 processes in aging.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding non-invasive brain stimulation techniques and M1 plasticity.
Main Results:
- Physical activity is known to benefit cognitive function, with emerging evidence suggesting positive effects on M1 plasticity.
- Older adults may exhibit reduced M1 plasticity compared to younger individuals, potentially impacting motor performance.
- Understanding physical activity's influence on M1 is crucial for addressing age-related motor decline and post-injury recovery.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to fully understand how physical activity influences primary motor cortex (M1) function and plasticity in older adults.
- Enhanced knowledge can lead to interventions promoting healthy aging and improving motor function recovery.
- Physical activity may be a key factor in maintaining M1 health and motor capabilities throughout the lifespan.
