Investigating the neural processing of active self-motion - First insights from a pilot study

Abstract

A previous study has linked vestibular evoked potentials (VestEPs) to passive self-motion in humans. Based on these finding, the current pilot study explored the neural response to active self-motion in humans. Participants (N=5) were instructed to rotate their head along the horizontal plane as fast as possible. Concurrently, their brain activity was recorded with electroencephalography (EEG). On a descriptive level, the EEG analysis revealed a N1-P2 complex over electrode Cz, which is similar to the VestEPs identified in passive self-motion. These preliminary results form the basis to investigate possible similarities between active and passive self-motion and provide a gateway to understanding the processing of vestibular information during self-motion in an ecologically valid setting. Future analysis will also focus on the preparation of head rotations, thereby extending the current knowledge of vestibular processing from pure sensation to motor execution. This provides access to critical questions regarding the role of corollary discharge and efference copy in daily life