抄録
To achieve a certain behavioral goal, we have to arrange multiple actions with different effectors in correct temporal order. It is not known how the supplementary motor area (SMA) and presupplementary motor area (pre-SMA) are involved in bimanual sequential movements. To address this question, we trained two monkeys to perform bimanual two sequential movements, consisting of either pronation or supination of the right or left arm, in sixteen different temporal orders. Correct sequences were initially instructed with visual signals but had to be memorized while performing a particular sequence. Thereafter, the sequential movements were performed based on memory. In this report, we focus on neuronal activity during the period just before the onset of the first movement. We examined how well the information about the arm use (right or left arm) and action (pronation or supination) for the first or second movement were represented in the neuronal activity in these areas. A group of neurons changed their activity depending on the arm use. In contrast, another group of neurons predominantly reflected the action to be performed. In addition, activity of a majority of neurons was strongly influenced by the action of the second movement, even before the initiation of the first movement. Herein, we consider the functional implication of neuronal activity in these areas concerning preparation and execution of bimanual sequential movements. [J Physiol Sci. 2007;57 Suppl:S24]
