PERSonalized rObotic NeurorehAbilitation for Stroke Survivors

In the researchers' words

The aim is to carry out a first clinical study, to expand existing knowledge about the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying post-stroke recovery. The information acquired during this phase will be used as building blocks to develop customized protocols. Understanding the mechanisms underlying stroke-induced motor deficits and motor recovery is mandatory to improve clinicians; ability to guide the repair of the affected neural structures. The motor system comprises a network of cortical and subcortical areas interacting via excitatory and inhibitory circuits, thereby governing motor behaviour. Stroke lesions cause neural dysfunction both at the lesion site and in remote brain regions. Abnormal interactions among cortical regions within the motor network contribute to the motor impairment after stroke. Longitudinal analysis of neural activity and connectivity can help to understand the pathophysiology mechanisms underlying functional impairment and recovery after stroke. Analysis of the data will try to extract biomarkers of plasticity and recovery that will be used to design customized therapeutic interventions.