Neuroplasticity is a critical process that enables us to learn and adapt. It is often impaired in a broad range of developmental and neurodegenerative disorders. This project will combine intense cognitive training using active video games with state-of-the-art quantitative neuroimaging methods into a framework for investigations of neuroplasticity and the temporal evolution of how the brain adapts to training and experience. The video games have been selected to focus on spatial working memory and unilateral motor learning. Advanced imaging methods will characterize changes in brain tissue morphology, microstructure, myelination, function and connectivity. The successful development of this framework will provide clinical researchers with a powerful tool to better investigate neuroplasticity effects in vivo across a wide range of developmental and neurological disorders, measure the responses to specific therapies and develop prospective biomarkers of neuroplasticity response.
Brain plasticity, which is impaired in many neurological diseases, is a critical process for learning, development and repair following injury. This project will investigate the application of novel MRI methods for the detection and quantification of brain changes associated with repeated training with active computer training. These techniques will be evaluated for both short-term and long-term brain changes associated with training.
| Kecskemeti, Steven; Samsonov, Alexey; Velikina, Julia et al. (2018) Robust Motion Correction Strategy for Structural MRI in Unsedated Children Demonstrated with Three-dimensional Radial MPnRAGE. Radiology 289:509-516 |
