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M1 recruitment during interleaved practice is important for encoding, not just consolidation, of skill memory

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The primary motor cortex (M1) is crucial for motor skill learning. We examined its role in interleaved practice, which enhances retention (vs. repetitive practice) through M1-dependent consolidation. We hypothesized that cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (ctDCS) to M1 would disrupt retention. We found that ctDCS reduced retention due to weakened encoding during acquisition, not disrupted consolidation. These results highlight M1's broad role in encoding and retention of novel motor skills.

Source: npj Science of Learning

DOI: 10.1038/s41539-024-00290-2

Authors: Taewon Kim, Hakjoo Kim, Benjamin A. Philip, David L. Wright

Institutions: Pennsylvania State University, Washington University in St. Louis, Harvard University, McLean Hospital, Texas A&M University

Language: English

Topic: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,590