BDNF and Motor Learning

The purpose of the study is to assess the status of brain-derived neurotrophic factor brain (BDNF) and how the brain behaves in response to skill acquisition. Specifically we will investigate the relationship of the status of BDNF with cortical excitability changes and learning that occur during a motor training paradigm. We aim to 1) determine cortical excitability changes by using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before and after training; 2) to determine finger tracking accuracy before and after training; and 3) determine the presence of BDNF polymorphism in each participant. We are testing healthy adults in this study, and eventually would like to apply to persons who have neurologic disorders such as stroke or dystonia. By applying a magnetic field to the outside of the head, electrical currents are produced within the brain that can stimulate brain tissue. Using TMS, the brain can be studied to gain a greater understanding of the mechanisms associated with cortical excitability in healthy and patient populations. There is limited knowledge of what influence genetic biomarkers such as BDNF have on cortical excitability changes within the cortex following learning. Studies have indicated that people without this certain gene are less likely to show changes in brain excitability during TMS and during motor learning than people with this gene