Multi-focal Stimulation of the Cortico-cerebellar Loop During the Acquisition of a Novel Hand Motor Skill in Chronic Stroke Survivors

Cerebellum. 2023 Feb 18. doi: 10.1007/s12311-023-01526-4. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTImpairment of hand motor function is a frequent consequence after a stroke and strongly determines the ability to regain a self-determined life. An influential research strategy for improving motor deficits is the combined application of behavioral training and non-invasive brain stimulation of the motor cortex (M1). However, a convincing clinical translation of the present stimulation strategies has not been achieved yet. One alternative and innovative approach is to target the functionally relevant brain network-based architecture, e.g., the dynamic interactions within the cortico-cerebellar system during learning. Here, we tested a sequential multifocal stimulation strategy targeting the cortico-cerebellar loop. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) was applied simultaneously to a hand-based motor training in N = 11 chronic stroke survivors during four training sessions on two consecutive days. The tested conditions were: sequential multifocal (M1-cerebellum (CB)-M1-CB) vs. monofocal control stimulation (M1-sham-M1-sham). Additionally, skill retention was assessed 1 and 10 days after the training phase. Paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation data were recorded to characterize stimulation response determining features. The application of CB-tDCS boosted motor behavior in the early training phase in comparison to the control condition. No faciliatory effects on the...

Source: Cerebellum - February 21, 2023 Category: Neuroscience Authors: M J Wessel L R Draaisma M Durand-Ruel P Maceira-Elvira M Moyne J-L Turlan A M ühl L Chauvign é P J Koch T Morishita A G Guggisberg F C Hummel Source Type: research