Cognitive and neural foundations of discrete sequence skill: a TMS study.
Executing discrete movement sequences typically involves a shift with practice from a relatively slow, stimulus-based mode to a fast mode in which performance is based on retrieving and executing entire motor chunks. The dual processor model explains the performance of (skilled) discrete key-press sequences in terms of an interplay between a cognitive processor and a motor system. In the present study, we tested and confirmed the core assumptions of this model at the behavioral level. In addition, we explored the involvement of the pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) in discrete sequence skill by applying inhibitory 20 min 1-Hz off-line repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Based on previous work, we predicted pre-SMA involvement in the selection/initiation of motor chunks, and this was confirmed by our results. The pre-SMA was further observed to be more involved in more complex than in simpler sequences, while no evidence was found for pre-SMA involvement in direct stimulus-response translations or associative learning processes. In conclusion, support is provided for the dual processor model, and for pre-SMA involvement in the initiation of motor chunks.
Cognitive Psychology and Ergonomics, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands. Electronic address: marit.ruitenberg@ugent.be.
Marit F L
MF
Ruitenberg
Cognitive Psychology and Ergonomics, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands.
Willem B
WB
Verwey
Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Dennis J L G
DJ
Schutter
Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Ghent, Henri Dunantlaan 2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Elger L
EL
Abrahamse
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001931:Brain Mapping; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D007839:Functional Laterality / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009044:Motor Cortex / Q000502:physiology*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D011930:Reaction Time; D050781:Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; D055815:Young Adult
Motor skill; Pre-supplementary motor area; Repetitive TMS; Sequential action