The Functional Significance of 8-13 Hz Oscillations in Sen sorimotor Cortex

Jaime A. Pineda, Ph.D.

In this presentation, I will examine the functional significance of mu rhythm oscillations vis-à-vis mirror system activity.  The properties, characteristics, and responsiveness to external events of these two phenomena overlap considerably and suggest common neural sources relevant to social cognition.   It is widely accepted that the mirror system is important for understanding action, but the degree to which the social dimensions of those interactions modulate its activity has only begun to be investigated.  I will describe studies examining whether nonbiological actions, movements varying in the degree of social interaction, as well as the processing of facial emotions affect mu rhythm activity.  Furthermore, I will describe studies exploring the relationship between mu rhythm-mirror system activity and autism spectrum disorders.  Finally, I will describe ongoing studies to change cortical dynamics utilizing neurofeedback training in an attempt to normalize mirror neuron dysfunction.