Neurophysiological Precursors of Accurate Visuomotor Performance

Abstract : Using advanced, novel signal processing techniques, we have measured the rapidly changing, spatial mass neuroelectric patterns associated with preparation and execution of precise right- and left-hand finger pressures in response to visual numeric stimuli in seven healthy right-handed adult male subjects. Previously unseen pre-stimulus differences between patterns associated with subsequently accurate and inaccurate performance were revealed. A spatially specific, multi-component neural preparatory set, composed of invariant left frontal and midline precentral components and hand-specific central and posterior parietal components, appear to be essential for accurate performance of certain types of difficult visuomotor tasks. When this preparatory set is weakened, or inappropriate, subsequent performance is likely to be inaccurate. (js)