When mechanical engineering inspired from physiology improves postural-related somatosensory processes.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Tactile afferent inputs from contact surfaces are crucial for sensorimotor control and postural reactions.
• Existing research lacks focus on how surface characteristics influence tactile processing and balance.
• Biomimetic surfaces, designed to mimic skin properties, may enhance neural processing for improved stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a biomimetic surface on tactile processing and postural control.
• To determine if biomimetic surfaces facilitate cortical processes during balance tasks.
• To assess the efficiency of postural reactions on biomimetic versus control surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Experiment 1: Participants (n=15) stood on biomimetic and control surfaces during sudden support surface accelerations, measuring somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and theta activity.
• Experiment 2: Participants (n=21) performed a concurrent cognitive task while standing on the surfaces to assess balance under reduced attentional resources.
• Utilized electroencephalography (EEG) to analyze cortical activity, specifically theta oscillations in the posterior parietal cortex.

Main Results:

• The biomimetic surface elicited larger intensity and shorter SEPs, indicating enhanced tactile processing.
• Reduced theta activity (5-7 Hz) over the posterior parietal cortex was observed on the biomimetic surface.
• Greater postural reaction efficiency was noted on the biomimetic surface, especially when cognitive load was increased.

Conclusions:

• Biomimetic surfaces optimize sensory input processing, making balance tasks less demanding.
• Enhanced tactile feedback from biomimetic surfaces improves sensorimotor integration for better postural control.
• These findings suggest biomimetic surfaces have potential applications in enhancing stability and reducing fall risk.