Role of distinctive cortical motor maps for hand muscles for recovery post stroke

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PROJECT SUMMARY / ABSTRACT The objective of the parent grant (R01 HD094731) is to determine if combining TheraBracelet with hand task practice is superior to hand task practice alone for recovery of hand function post-stroke in an adequately powered study. The parent grant aims to determine the effect of TheraBracelet on hand functional recovery, sensorimotor grip control, and neural communication within the cortical sensorimotor network. The proposed diversity supplement aligns nicely with the scope and approved aims of the parent award as the supplement aims to investigate neuroplasticity toward distinctive cortical motor maps for hand muscles that may contribute to motor recovery. Specifically, the supplement aims to determine the effect of rehabilitation intervention on spatial distinctiveness among motor maps of hand muscles as measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and determine the relationship between motor map changes and motor recovery. This supplement research is expected to inform the new insights for the mechanism for recovery of the fine motor control of the hand following stroke. This new knowledge will be critical for the development of novel rehabilitation treatments that facilitate the cortical neuroplasticity necessary to achieve hand motor recovery. Most importantly, this award will foster the underrepresented minority candidate (Ms. Arianna Alston) for a PhD neuroscience research career. The training activities will focus on developing new research skills for Ms. Alston to perform the supplement research and begin her research career. Specifically, Ms. Alston will (1) enhance her knowledge of neuroscience applied to neurorehabilitation research, (2) develop proficiency in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting TMS motor maps for corticospinal neuromuscular control, and (3) develop a successful application for a PhD program. Therefore, this supplement award will contribute to enhancing diversity in the biomedical workforce, as only 7% of doctoral degree recipients in science and engineering disciplines were African American, whereas African Americans make up 12% of the total US population between the ages of 18-74 according to NSF report.