On the Homology of the Dominant and Non-Dominant Corticospinal Tracts: A Novel Neurophysiological Assessment

• DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020278
• Publication Date: 2023-02-08T07:29:08Z
• Authors: Maria Rita Pagliara; Federico Cecconi; Patrizio Pasqualetti; Massimo Bertoli; Karolina Armonaite; Eugenia Gianni; Joy Grifoni; Teresa L’Abbate; Franco Marinozzi; Livio Conti; Luca Paulon; Antonino Uncini; Filippo Zappasodi; Franca Tecchio
• Keywords: Corticospinal tract; Homology; Neurophysiology

Objectives: The homology of hemispheric cortical areas plays a crucial role in brain functionality. Here, we extend this concept to the dominant and non-dominant hemi-bodies, investigating relationship two corticospinal tracts (CSTs). evoked responses provide an estimate number in-phase recruitments via their amplitude as suitable indicator neuronal projections’ integrity. An innovative derived from experience somatosensory system is that morphology reflects recruitment pattern whole circuit. Methods: CST was assessed Fréchet distance between morphologies motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) homologous left- right-hand first dorsal interosseous muscles 40 healthy volunteers (HVs). We tested working hypothesis inter-side higher than intra-side distances. Results: In addition clear confirmation (p < 0.0001 for both hemi-bodies) verified all single subjects, observed one. Interhemispheric similarity increased with right-handedness prevalence = 0.004). Conclusions: newly introduced measure circuit patterning represents potential benchmark evaluation inter-lateral mechanisms expressing hemilateral structures subtending learning suggests variability physiologically increases circuits greater