Aging and brain plasticity: alterations in brain structure, function and connectivity during motor coordination.

The aging population poses unprecedented challenges for society. Here, we aim to advance our understanding of age-related changes in the brain and how they impact upon movement control. Our basic premise is that alterations in motor functioning are constrained by functional, structural, and connectivity changes in the normally aging brain. We will use an array of state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques combined with behavioral paradigms. Our aims are threefold. First, we will determine how alterations in complex motor tasks can be accounted for by structural (white and grey matter) and connectivity changes across the lifespan. Second, we will assess age-related differences in multitasking and its neural determinants during motor task performance. Third, we will explore experience-dependent neuroplasticity via the study of age-related alterations in brain structure, function, and connectivity as a result of training.

Keywords:Motor control, Neuroplasticity, Medical imaging, Brain function, Motor behavior, Postural control, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, Aging

Disciplines:Laboratory medicine, Palliative care and end-of-life care, Regenerative medicine, Other basic sciences, Other health sciences, Nursing, Other paramedical sciences, Other translational sciences, Other medical and health sciences