Using non-invasive brain stimulation to modulate performance in visuomotor rotation adaptation: A scoping review

Abstract

As research on the visuomotor rotation (VMR) adaptation expands its scope from behavioral science to encompass neuropsychological perspectives, an increasing number of studies have employed non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques to explore the specific contributions of different neural structures to VMR adaptation. Despite early studies suggesting that cerebellar stimulation influenced the rate of adaptation and that stimulating primary motor cortex led to an enhanced retention of newly learned adaptation, subsequent studies could not always achieve consistent results. To probe this inconsistency, we systematically comb through past studies and extract numerous details, including paradigm designs, context settings, and modulation protocols in this scoping review. In summary, the paradigm design primarily serves two purposes: to dissociate implicit and explicit adaptation and to assess the retention of motor memory, whilst context settings such as apparatus, movement-related parameters and the information provided for subjects may complicate the modulated neuropsychological processes. We also conclude key NIBS parameters such as target regions and timing in stimulation protocols. Furthermore, we recognize the potential of neurophysiological biomarkers to support future VMR studies that incorporate NIBS and advocate for the use of several newly emerging NIBS techniques to enrich the field.