The event related potential technique and microstate analysis of memory guided and visually guided movements

Abstract

In this study we examined the neural correlates associated with memory guided and visually guided reaching movements using electroencephalography (EEG). Participants performed manual aiming movements to targets under varying delay and visual feedback conditions, with conditions being presented under randomized and blocked schedules. Using the event related potential (ERP) technique we observed the visually evoked potentials (VEPs) associated with the preview of the target as well as the movement related potentials associated with movement execution. While, behavioural findings from the study replicated the typical advantage of having visual feedback over no visual feedback, the electrophysiological data revealed differences in target encoding and movement execution when individuals were engaged in the blocked protocol. In addition, a micro-state analysis involving the full electrode montage was used to examine the clustering of activity across the scalp and time. This analysis not only reinforces our basic ERP findings but also provides us with greater clarity on the potential underlying neural processes sub-serving manual aiming.