Neural networks underlying implicit motor sequence learning in Parkinson's disease: effects of non-invasive brain stimulation (FWOTM1067)

Implicit motor sequence learning (IMSL) is the ability to learn to
perform motor skills in a specific sequential order. This type of
learning, which is essential for daily life activities, is impaired in
individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In PD, basal ganglia
dysfunction leads to alterations in the brain activity in the cerebellum,
making it a prime neural model to study the contributions of the basal
ganglia and cerebellar networks to IMSL.
In this project, I will apply transcranial direct-current stimulation
(tDCS, a non-invasive brain stimulation technique) to the primary
motor cortex (M1) and cerebellum of individuals with PD and healthy
controls during IMSL, in order to stimulate the basal ganglia and
cerebellar networks, respectively. Since M1 and cerebellar tDCS
directly affect IMSL, this will allow me to draw causal conclusions on
the relationship between these networks and IMSL.
An additional objective of this project is to advance our
understanding of the influence of stimulation focality on IMSL by
determining differential effects of conventional tDCS and novel High
Definition (HD) tDCS of M1 on IMSL.
Combined, these goals will expand our fundamental insight into the
contributions of the basal ganglia and cerebellar networks to IMSL in
PD. These theoretical insights may ultimately serve as input to
develop evidence-based clinical tDCS applications for the
rehabilitation of individuals with PD

Keywords:Parkinson's disease, brain stimulation, motor sequence learning

Disciplines:Neuropsychology, Cognitive processes, Learning and behaviour, Motor processes and action, Rehabilitation