A Neuroimaging Study of Automatic Movements in Patients With Parkinson's Disease

Patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD) are deficient in making automatic movements. The underlying neural correlates of the problem are not understood. In the present study, to investigate the brain activity contributing to this disorder, we will use specially designed dual-task paradigm and the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) technique. Thirty patients with PD will be asked to perform sequential finger-tapping movement with the right hand; results will be analyzed from 20 patients who achieve automaticity as defined in the study. In addition, we will use a dual-task paradigm to evaluate automaticity by having subjects perform either a distraction task (involving visual memory) or an interference task (tapping with the left hand) simultaneously with the sequential movements. Patients will practice to achieve automaticity. fMRI will be obtained before and after achieving automaticity. By analyzing fMRI results, we will explore the brain regions associated with deficiency of automatic movements in PD patients.