Study of Brain Activity in Speech Motor Learning and Memory Using fMRI and Adaptation Tasks in Adults Aged 18 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how the brain learns and retains speech movements, focusing on speech motor learning. The study tests a new model that suggests learning and retention involve changes not only in motor brain areas but also in auditory and sensory regions. The research aims to identify specific brain regions that contribute to retaining new speech movements by temporarily disrupting their activity and using brain imaging techniques. Participants will perform speech learning tasks while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging fMRI to observe brain activity and connections. This process will be repeated on a second day to assess learning and brain function changes. Some participants will receive altered auditory feedback during the tasks, while others will perform without altered feedback as a control. Retention of learning will be tested 24 hours later. During the study, participants will complete learning and retention tests lasting about 30 minutes each, with fMRI scans conducted to measure brain connectivity before and after learning. Researchers will measure speech motor learning performance and retention using these tests and brain imaging results. The total participation includes two sessions with assessments to understand motor memory consolidation and brain plasticity related to speech.

Speech Motor Learning and Retention (Aim 3)