Motor inhibition in functional paralysis – a task-based fMRI study

Motivation: In functional neurological disorders (FND), symptoms (including paralysis) occur despite intact anatomical pathways. The pathophysiology of FND is poorly understood, making diagnosis, treatment and prognosis uncertain. Goal(s): Assuming that higher cognitive functions may play a role in the manifestation of symptoms, this study investigates motor inhibition in FND. Approach: Using task-based fMRI, this observational study investigates the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) response of the brain during a motor inhibition task. Results: Preliminary results indicate reduced behavioral performance and lower BOLD activity in the left caudate nucleus, a key node for motor inhibition, suggesting a disrupted neural pathway in FND. Impact: Our task-based fMRI results suggest impaired motor inhibition in functional neurological disorders and open new avenues for further investigation on its role in symptom production and potential treatment options.