Distinct patterns of connectivity with motor cortex reflect component processes of sensorimotor learning

• DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.01.547344
• Publication Date: 2023-07-03T00:10:10Z
• Authors: Corson N. Areshen...; Anouk J. de Brouwer; Daniel J. Gale; Joseph Y. Nashed; J. Randall Flanagan; Jonathan Smallwood; Jason P. Gallivan
• Keywords: Implicit Learning; Motor Learning

Abstract Sensorimotor learning is supported by multiple competing processes that operate concurrently, making it a challenge to elucidate their neural underpinnings. Here, using human functional MRI, we identify three distinct axes of connectivity between the motor cortex and other brain regions during sensorimotor adaptation. These uniquely correspond subjects’ degree implicit learning, performance errors explicit strategy use, involve different networks situated at increasing levels cortical hierarchy. We test generalizability these separate form known rely mainly on processes, show only Explicit axis, composed higher-order areas in transmodal cortex, predicts this task. Together, our study uncovers patterns with adaptation, component support, how they generalize forms learning.