The Effect of Dopaminergic Modulation on Brain Computer Interface Efficacy

Detailed Summary

The use of Brain-Computer Interface system (BCI system) allows for the detection of neurophysiological signals on the surface of the head and provides feedback to subjects or patients. For patients with neurological disorders who have severe motor deficits, self-generated brain signals can be translated, for example, into orthosis-supported movement of the paralyzed limb. Another possibility is to translate the brain signal into peripheral electrostimulation (functional electrical stimulation, FES), which generates muscle contraction and thus movement. Fundamentally, BCI technology can be used as a replacement therapy when no recovery of motor function is expected. Another important application lies in improving motor training, relearning, and initiating movements. In the latter case, it is hoped that BCI training will stimulate neuroplastic mechanisms that lead to functional improvement. Problems on the translational path to clinical application are: * The high interindividual variability between different people regarding learning to control the BCI system; * The extent of learning and motor improvement is often limited For this reason, the present study aims to investigate whether dopaminergic influence on the brain affects the effectiveness of using a BCI system in healthy subjects.

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