Distinct neural signatures in a sensorimotor synchronization-continuation task.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Motor Control

Background:

• Optimal sensorimotor timing relies on internal models for task adaptation.
• Finger tapping tasks involve externally-cued synchronization and un-cued continuation phases.
• The neural basis for distinct within- and between-condition internal model adjustments is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neural networks supporting internal model refinement during sensorimotor synchronization and continuation.
• To determine if distinct neural processes underlie performance adjustments within and between task conditions.

Main Methods:

• Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to scan 100 neurotypical adults.
• Participants performed a finger tapping task with distinct synchronization and continuation conditions.
• Behavioral tapping accuracy and brain activity were analyzed during initial and subsequent phases of each condition.

Main Results:

• Rapid improvements in tapping accuracy were observed in the initial seconds of both synchronization and continuation conditions.
• Heightened functional activity across sensorimotor, prefrontal-parietal-temporal, and salience networks characterized the early phase of each condition.
• This heightened activity correlated with improved tapping performance, suggesting rapid internal model refinement.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic neural processes in sensorimotor, prefrontal-parietal-temporal, and salience networks support the rapid development and refinement of internal models for sensorimotor timing.
• These findings suggest that distinct subprocesses within and between task conditions engage overlapping but dynamically modulated neural networks.
• The study highlights the brain's adaptability in generating and employing internal models for precise motor control.