Abstract
Implicit motor learning and memory involve complex cortical and subcortical networks. The induction of plasticity in these network components via non-invasive brain stimulation, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), has shown to improve motor learning. However, studies showing these effects are mostly restricted to stimulation of the primary motor cortex (M1) during the early stage of learning. Because of this, we aimed to explore the efficacy of anodal tDCS applied over the posterior parietal cortex (PPC), which is involved in memory processes, on serial reaction time task (SRTT) performance. Specifically, to evaluate the involvement of both motor learning network components, we compared the effects of tDCS applied over regions corresponding to M1 and PPC during the early and late stages of learning. The results revealed a selective improvement of reaction time (RT) during anodal stimulation over the PPC in the late stage of learning. These findings support the assumption that the PPC is relevant during specific phases of learning, at least for SRTT performance. The results also indicate that not only the target area (i.e., PPC), but also timing is crucial for achieving the effects of stimulation on motor learning.
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Acknowledgements
The authors thank doctors G. Yáñez Téllez and J.R. Alameda for their respective contributions in recruiting participants and designing the task.
Funding
Michael A. Nitsche receives support by the EC Horizon 2020 Program, FET Grant, 686764-LUMINOUS, grants from the German Ministry of Research and Education (GCBS grant 01EE1403C, TRAINSTIM grant 01GQ1424E), and is member of the scientific advisory boards of Neuroelectrics, and NeuroDevice. The other authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or non-for-profit sectors. G. Nathzidy Rivera-Urbina receives support from the Mexican Government, Grant UABC-PTC-610 DSA/103.5/16/1024 (PRODEP).
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Rivera-Urbina, G.N., Molero-Chamizo, A. & Nitsche, M.A. Discernible effects of tDCS over the primary motor and posterior parietal cortex on different stages of motor learning. Brain Struct Funct 227, 1115–1131 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00429-021-02451-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00429-021-02451-0