Project R-7225

Age-related deficits in inhibition: a better understanding of structural-functional changes in the aging brain and training-induced neuroplasticity. (Research)

Healthy aging is a goal with a considerable social and economic impact. It is therefore of critical importance to expand our understanding of age-related neurodegenerative changes and their impact upon inhibition. The central assumption is that age-related structural and functional changes in the brain affect inhibitory processes. An integrated approach including medical imaging techniques (task-related and resting state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI, RS fMRI), Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) will be used to investigate inhibitory control with a new developed multi-limb choice reaction time task (MLCRT-task). My aims are threefold. First, I will investigate age-related changes in inter-hemispheric inhibition (IHI), brain activation, brain connectivity and their interrelationships. Second, I will document how age-related changes in IHI directly affect motor planning/generation processes during the MLCRT-task. Third, I will investigate whether training of MLCRT-task variants modifies IHI, brain structure (grey and white matter) and brain connectivity, and whether these plastic changes can be amplified with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). This project aims to uncover age-related changes in inhibitory recruitment processes and provide a foundation for intervention programs that promote functional independence.

16 July 2016 - 19 July 2016