In the following we briefly inform about current research topics and doctoral theses
- Somato-sensory evoked potentials as predictors of motor learning under the influence of sports expertise
- Neural correlates of audio-motor vs. visuo-motor learning using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)
- The motor learning process in a complex motor balance task: testing the Bernstein model using motion analysis
- Effects of balance training in elderly and Parkinson's disease patients on motor and cognitive parameters (cooperative study with the Max Planck Institute Leipzig)
- Modification of a complex serial reaction time task of the lower extremities using transcranial direct current stimulation - a tDCS-fNIRS study
- Possibilities of modifying motion perception effects on motor learning performance using tDCS.
- Interaction effects of intrahemispheric communication and motor learning correlates
- Neurophysiological basis of fundamental strength training
- Functional relevance of physiological mirror activity: intermanual performance and cross-education
Completed Dissertation
Name: Oliver Seidel-Marzi
(04/2017 - 03/2021, grading: summa cum laude)
"Neurodiagnostics in Sports: Investigating the Brain’s Potential to Optimize Performance in Athletes "
The aim of the cumulative dissertation was to apply state-of-the-art non-invasive brain imaging and stimulation techniques in a sports-related context focusing on current research questions. Therefore, two studies were conducted to investigate neuronal particularities in athletes compared to non-athletes. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), it has been demonstrated that (1) brain activation increases as a function of intensity during a cycling exercise, indicating that increased recruitment of muscle fibers requires a higher level of neuronal resources. In a further study, it has been shown that (2) the increase of excitability in motor-related brain areas by means of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) does not per se translate into positive effects on a behavioral level, but that (3) certain parameters of motor performance can be selectively modulated and optimized. In summary, the present findings underline the potential of the systematic application of these methods in future sports science in order to diagnose and increase training outcomes and optimize motor performance in athletes. However, several questions with regards to underlying mechanisms and potential explanations still remain elusive and need to be addressed to use the brain's entire potential in sports.
Advisor: Professor Patrick Ragert, Ph.D.
Name: Tom Maudrich
(11/2016 – 11/2021, grading: summa cum laude)
"Neural mechanisms of physiological mirror activity "
Mirror Motor Activity describes involuntarily occurring homologous muscle activity in contralateral resting limbs during unilateral movements. This phenomenon is not restricted to pathologies of the central nervous system, but instead also present in healthy humans. To date, it has been shown that especially isometric contractions with high force demands lead to Mirror Activity in the upper and lower extremity. The aim of my doctoral studies is to investigate the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms as well as structural correlates of the physiological form of Mirror Activity during unilateral isometric contractions. Therefore, non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (tDCS, TMS) as well as different forms of neuroimaging (structural/functional MRI, EEG) will be used. The first investigation focuses on the question if the application of transcranial direct current stimulation of specific motor brain areas is able to modulate Mirror Activity. Furthermore, a longitudinal study will be performed to see if unilateral strength training is able to change the extent of Mirror Activity, as a result of concomitant structural and functional adaptations of the central nervous system.
Advisors: Professor Dr. Arno Villringer
Professor Patrick Ragert, Ph.D.
Name: Rouven Kenville
(11/2016 – 11/2021)
"Compound motor control: Non-invasive approaches to uncover principles and mechanisms"
In my doctoral thesis I am engaged in research on the role of the brain during compound whole-body movements. The main goal of this project is to uncover central structures and networks involved in the control of complex movements. For this purpose, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI/sMRI), electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) are used to reveal structural and functional correlates of compound movement control. In addition, the modulation of central, involved structures will be investigated using methods of non-invasive brain stimulation, namely transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and high-definition tDCS. Results of my PhD project potentially complement the knowledge of several scientific disciplines. I hope to contribute to the understanding of the role of the brain during complex movement control and to expand both sports science related research and education through these findings. Furthermore, a potential modulation of maximum force output may have implications for the field of neurorehabilitation. For example, an increase in muscular strength via non-invasive brain stimulation can be a benefit in the rehabilitation of patients with neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system.
Advisors: Professor Dr. Arno Villringer
Professor Patrick Ragert, Ph.D.