Improvement in Perception of Self-Generated Tactile Stimuli
Author Information
Author(s): Martin Voss, Paul M. Bays, John C. Rothwell, Daniel M. Wolpert
Primary Institution: Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London
Hypothesis
Does theta-burst stimulation of the primary motor cortex affect the perception of self-generated tactile stimuli?
Conclusion
Theta-burst stimulation of the primary motor cortex significantly improves the perception of self-generated tactile stimuli.
Supporting Evidence
- Self-generated tactile sensations are perceived as weaker than externally generated sensations.
- Continuous theta-burst stimulation significantly reduces sensory attenuation.
- Participants produced more force when matching self-generated forces after TBS.
Takeaway
When you touch yourself, it feels lighter than when someone else touches you. This study found that a special brain stimulation can help you feel your own touch more accurately.
Methodology
The study used a force-matching task to measure sensory attenuation before and after theta-burst stimulation over the primary motor cortex.
Limitations
The effects of intermittent TBS were not significant, and the exact mechanism of action remains speculative.
Participant Demographics
Sixteen healthy right-handed subjects (nine males, seven females; ages 20–31 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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