Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to record and analyze induced gamma-band activity (GBA) (30–60 Hz) in cerebral motor areas during imaginary movement and to compare it quantitatively with activity recorded in the same areas during actual movement using a simplified electroencephalogram (EEG). Brain activity (basal activity, imaginary motor task and actual motor task) is obtained from 12 healthy volunteer subjects using an EEG (Cz channel). GBA is analyzed using the mean power spectral density (PSD) value. Event-related synchronization (ERS) is calculated from the PSD values of the basal GBA (GBAb), the GBA of the imaginary movement (GBAim) and the GBA of the actual movement (GBAac). The mean GBAim and GBAac values for the right and left hands are significantly higher than the GBAb value (p = 0.007). No significant difference is detected between mean GBA values during the imaginary and actual movement (p = 0.242). The mean ERS values for the imaginary movement (ERSimM (%) = 23.52) and for the actual movement (ERSacM = 27.47) do not present any significant difference (p = 0.117). We demonstrated that ERS could provide a useful way of indirectly checking the function of neuronal motor circuits activated by voluntary movement, both imaginary and actual. These results, as a proof of concept, could be applied to physiology studies, brain–computer interfaces, and diagnosis of cognitive or motor pathologies.
Highlights
The synchronization of neuronal firing in the 20–200 Hz range is known as gamma-band activity (GBA) and can be divided into two bands, low (30–60 Hz) and high (60–200 Hz) [1,2]
This contrasts with our results, in which we found greater activity in the actual movement (ERSacM (%) = 27.479 ± 13.256, ERSimM (%) = 15.983 (14.313), with no significant difference)
We have developed a proof of concept that could confirm the viability of detecting gamma-band activity in imaginary and actual motor movements in environments compatible with clinical practice, doing so using a single EEG channel and without the need for a shielded chamber room
Summary
The synchronization of neuronal firing in the 20–200 Hz range is known as gamma-band activity (GBA) and can be divided into two bands, low (30–60 Hz) and high (60–200 Hz) [1,2]. GBA is generated in most brain structures, at a retinal level, and in the olfactory system. The principal neurotransmitters involved in its generation are glutamate (excitatory), acetylcholine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (inhibitory); GBA is linked to cerebral functions such as perception, attention, memory, consciousness, synaptic plasticity and motor control [3]. GBA in the 30–90 Hz frequency range appears in extensive areas of the brain [4]. Movement-related GBA has been proposed as the integrator of sensory and motor processes during movement preparation and control [5].
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