Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
11031378 | Brain and Cognition | 2018 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
This study examined the role of the left inferior frontal gyrus in the implicit learning and retention of a 'simple' first order conditional (FOC) sequence and a relatively 'complex' second order conditional (SOC) sequence, using anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS). Groups of healthy adults received either a-tDCS (nâ¯=â¯18) over the left inferior frontal gyrus or sham/placebo (nâ¯=â¯18) stimulation. On separate days, participants completed a serial reaction time (SRT) task whilst receiving stimulation. On one of the days, participants were presented with a FOC sequence and in another, a SOC sequence. Both the learning and short-term retention of the sequences were measured. Results showed a-tDCS enhanced the short-term retention of the SOC sequence but not the FOC sequence. There was no effect of a-tDCS on the learning of either FOC or SOC sequences. The results provide evidence of prefrontal involvement in the retention of a motor sequence. However, its role appears to be influenced by the complexity of the sequence's structure. Additionally, the results show a-tDCS can enhance retention of an implicitly learnt motor sequence.
Keywords
Related Topics
Life Sciences
Neuroscience
Cognitive Neuroscience
Authors
Jarrad A.G. Lum, Andrea Mills, James M.A. Plumridge, Nicole P. Sloan, Gillian M. Clark, Martina Hedenius, Peter G. Enticott,