Functional and Structural Correlates of Motor Speed in the Cerebellar Anterior Lobe

摘要: In athletics, motor performance is determined by different abilities such as technique, endurance, strength and speed. Based on animal studies, speed thought to be encoded in the basal ganglia, sensorimotor cortex cerebellum. The question arises whether there a unique structural feature human brain, which allows “power athletes” perform simple foot movement significantly faster than “endurance athletes”. We acquired functional brain imaging data from 32 track-and-field athletes. study comprised of 16 requiring high movements (sprinters, jumpers, throwers) endurance athletes (distance runners) contrast do not require movements. Functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) was used identify specific regions interest during fast slow Anatomical MRI scans were performed assess grey matter volume differences between groups (voxel based morphometry). tested maximum velocity plantarflexion (PF-Vmax) electromyographical activity lateral medial gastrocnemius muscle. Behaviourally, significant difference two noted PF-Vmax fMRI indicates that plantarflexions are accompanied increased cerebellar anterior lobe. same region for power compared counterparts. Our results suggest speed-specific neuro-functional -structural exist peripheral central nervous system.