Research interests:
The research interest of our group focuses on adaptive plasticity and compensation in neural networks involved in higher cognitive functions. We are particularly interested in how language networks interact with cognitive support networks, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that enable the brain to adapt to changing situations and challenges. Our research addresses how this plasticity is evident across the lifespan—in learning new skills, adapting to cognitive decline with aging, and, most critically, in recovery after brain damage.
We explore network interactions supporting higher level cognition by combining non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) with electrophysiology and/or neuroimaging. Our work is driven by the idea that a deeper understanding of how brain regions or networks interact could contribute to improved strategies for language recovery after brain injury.
Exhibited methods during Open Lab:
- Neuronavigation and MEPs - Neuronavigation refers to the real-time image-guided technology to precisely localize specific brain regions during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). It relies on anatomical images (e.g., MRI scans) to map the brain and guide the TMS coil to target regions with high accuracy. Motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) are electrical responses recorded from muscles following stimulation of the primary motor cortex. They are typically used to provide insights into the individual excitability of the brain. Together, these tools are the basis of our TMS research.
- Speech Arrest - Speech arrest refers to a temporary or abrupt interruption of speech production, which can be induced by stimulating speech regions like Broca’s area. When these areas are stimulated with TMS, it can impact the neural activity needed to produce speech, causing the person to stop speaking, stutter, or produce incomplete words. Speech arrest induced by TMS can for instance be used to map language areas prior to brain surgery to identify critical language areas that should be preserved to prevent post-surgical deficits.
- TMS-EEG - TMS-EEG refers to the integration of TMS with electroencephalography (EEG). TMS pulses can modulate brain activity, whereas EEG can record the brain’s electrical activity in real time. Their combination (TMS-EEG) allows us to directly probe neural responses to the TMS pulses in high temporal resolution. It can be used to explore dynamics of cortical activity, neural plasticity, and network connectivity in health and disease. For instance, we use TMS-EEG as a tool to study the causal relevance of particular brain regions to certain cognitive functions like language comprehension at certain points in time (causality for when, where, what).
Time & Location:
When: Tuesday, November 26th 2024, 13:00
Where: EEG3, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Stephanstraße 1a, 04103 Leipzig
Preliminary program:
13:00 - 13:30 Welcome and introduction to non-invasive brain stimulation
13:30 - 14:45 - 1. Round of neuronavigation and MEPs
14:45 - 15:30 - 2. Round of speech arrest
– 15 min break –
15:45 - 16:45 - 3. Round of TMS-EEG
16:45 - 17:00 - Wrap-up with pizza.
Capacity:
The number of participants is limited to 8, on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are interested in the Open Lab Day, please send a short registration email.