Effect of TMS on Brain Areas During Movement Planning
Author Information
Author(s): Busan Pierpaolo, Barbera Claudia, Semenic Mauro, Monti Fabrizio, Pizzolato Gilberto, Pelamatti Giovanna, Battaglini Piero Paolo
Primary Institution: University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
Hypothesis
Can transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affect the planning of reaching movements in the parietal and premotor cortex?
Conclusion
TMS can facilitate the planning of reaching movements by affecting cortical dynamics in the parieto-frontal network.
Supporting Evidence
- TMS applied at 75% of mean reaction time significantly shortened reaction times.
- Facilitatory effects of TMS were observed in both the parietal and premotor cortex.
- Participants showed variability in reaction times based on skill improvement.
- Statistical analysis revealed significant interactions between TMS and stimulation point.
Takeaway
This study shows that using a special technique called TMS on certain parts of the brain can help people plan their reaching movements better.
Methodology
The study used TMS to stimulate the parietal and premotor cortex while participants planned reaching movements, measuring reaction times.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size in some experiments and the specific demographic of participants.
Limitations
The study may not generalize to all populations as it only included right-handed individuals.
Participant Demographics
76 healthy right-handed volunteers, aged 19-56, with a mean age of 27.1.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.0066
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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