fMRI investigation of complex coordinated movements: focus on alteration of brain activation due to aging and exercise

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The diversity of activities that are carried out by individuals on a daily basis relies chiefly on the complex coordinated activation of multiple muscles. Using two newly developed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigms in which motor performance is quantified simultaneously with brain activation, we will examine the basic neural networks involved in the planning and execution of complex coordinated movements in humans. Furthermore, we will assess age-related alteration in brain activation involved in planning and execution of these movements, and determine whether physical activity may prevent or reverse these age-related alterations in brain activation. In the first of three studies, brain activation associated with the execution of bimanual tracking movements of physically active elderly individuals will be compared to that of young and inactive elderly individuals. In the second study, brain activation associated with the planning of bimanual tracking movements of physically active elderly individuals will be compared to that of young and inactive elderly individuals. Brain activation will be quantified using a 3 Tesla magnet, and bimanual coordination using MRI-compatible forearm rotational sensors. In the last study, the impact of a three-month exercise program on the pattern of brain activation of elderly inactive elderly individuals will be examined. Brain scans will be performed before and after the training sessions.  The goals of the proposed research program is to improve greatly our understanding of neural networks involved in bimanual coordination in healthy subjects, how it is modified in elderly individuals, and whether physical activity may prevent or reverse these age-related alterations in brain activation.  These studies may have the potential to demonstrate that the benefits of physical activity in elderly individuals is not limited to changes in neuro-muscular or cardio-respiratory systems, but may also affect the neural networks needed to perform complex motor tasks.