Motor dysfunction in mild cognitive impairment as tested by kinematic analysis and transcranial magnetic stimulation

Previous studies have demonstrated voluntary movement alterations as well motor cortex excitability and plasticity changes in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). To investigate the pathophysiology of abnormalities MCI, we tested possible relationships between primary patients. Fourteen amnestic MCI (aMCI) 16 healthy controls were studied. Cognitive assessment was performed using clinical scales. Finger tapping recorded by a motion analysis system. Transcranial magnetic stimulation used to test input/output curve evoked potentials, intracortical inhibition, short-latency afferent inhibition. Primary probed theta burst stimulation. We investigated correlations abnormalities, scores, cortical neurophysiological parameters. showed less rhythmic but no other abnormalities. Cortical measures normal patients, whereas reduced. Movement rhythm correlated frontal dysfunction scores. Our study abnormal changes, correlation two. Altered dysfunction. results contribute understanding pathophysiological mechanisms MCI.