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Temporal responses in sensorimotor cortex during hand movements
Sophia Gimple1,2, Zachary V Freudenburg1, Nick F Ramsey1,3
1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Plos One
|May 7, 2026
Summary
Primary motor cortex (M1) signals activate before primary somatosensory cortex (S1) signals during movement initiation, challenging traditional views. This finding suggests S1 plays a role beyond sensory processing, impacting neurotechnology development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sensorimotor integration
- Human motor control
Background:
- The primary somatosensory cortex (S1) has been traditionally viewed as solely responsible for sensory processing.
- Recent evidence challenges this view, suggesting S1 may also be involved in sensorimotor integration and motor control.
- The precise temporal relationship between S1 and primary motor cortex (M1) during movement execution, especially concerning reafferent feedback, remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal dynamics between S1 and M1 neural signals during movement execution.
- To understand the role of S1 in sensorimotor integration and movement initiation.
- To explore the influence of reafferent feedback on the S1-M1 interaction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-density electrocorticography (ECoG) grids implanted over the hand region of the sensorimotor cortex in eight able-bodied participants.
- Compared onset latencies of low-frequency band (LFB) and high-frequency band (HFB) signals between S1 and M1.
- Examined ECoG data from two participants attempting movement with minimal reafference.
Main Results:
- A consistent pattern of M1 signal activation preceding S1 signal activation was observed in the HFB across participants.
- No clear temporal pattern was found for LFB signals between S1 and M1.
- Similar HFB activation patterns were noted in participants with minimal reafference, suggesting S1's role in movement initiation.
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge the classical view of S1 as purely a sensory processing area.
- Results suggest S1 actively participates in movement initiation, not just sensory feedback processing.
- A deeper understanding of S1-M1 integration is crucial for advancing neurotechnology and understanding neuromuscular disorders.
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