Postural networks: linking cognitive and motor control across the lifespan
Almost every movement we make requires the coordination of multiple muscles. How the central nervous system coordinates these patterns of muscle activity remains largely unknown. Here I propose muscle networks as an innovative and principled approach towards neural interactions underlying coordinated movements and posture to address this outstanding problem. Recent findings show robust patterns of neural coupling across multiple muscles. Application of network theory has brought about a paradigm change in brain research and has been crucial for understanding how neurons and neuronal structures connect and communicate. Here I will extend the approach used to study brain networks to the neuromuscular system and investigate the neural interactions within the brain and spinal cord involved in postural control using network analysis of brain and muscle activity (EEG & EMG). By relating network structure to postural kinematics obtained using 3D motion-capture technology, I will investigate the functional role of postural networks in healthy participants performing postural tasks and to map changes in postural control across the lifespan. Cognitive control and sensorimotor functions will be assessed using standardized test and correlated with network metrics to explain variability in postural control and disentangle their role in organizing of postural networks. By combining advanced computational analyses with state-of-the-art recording techniques, the project will enable reconstructing functional interactions in the distributed motor system from non-invasive recordings. Postural networks hence offer a promising new perspective on a long-standing open question in movement neuroscience. The expertise of my supervisors and the excellent facilities at Maastricht University provide an ideal environment in which to conduct this project and establish my own research group at a leading research institute in Europe.