Motor Cortex Plasticity During Functional Recovery Following Brain Damage

Abstract

Although brain damage causes functional impair-ment, it is often followed by partial or total recovery of function. Recovery is believed to occur primar-ily because of brain plasticity. Both human and animal studies have significantly contributed to uncover-ing the neuronal basis of plasticity. Recent advances in brain imaging technology have enabled the investi-gation of plastic changes in living human brains. In addition, animal experiments have revealed detailed changes at the neural and genetic levels. In this review, plasticity in motor-related areas of the cerebral cortex, which is one of the most well-studied areas of the neo-cortex in terms of plasticity, is reviewed. In addition, the potential of technological interventions to enhance plasticity and promote functional recovery following brain damage is discussed. Novel neurorehabilitation technologies are expected to be established based on the emerging research on plasticity from the last several decades.