Serotonin and Motor Plasticity

The Effects of Serotonergic Challenge on Motor Learning and Neuroplasticity

With this study, the investigators aim to test whether acute administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) improves motor performance in a sequential motor learning task in comparison to placebo in healthy humans.

Microdialysis findings in animal models provide evidence for a monoaminergic augmentation of motor function. However, this evidence is largely limited to noradrenaline and dopamine, with little evidence to support a similar effect for serotonin. What remains to be tested therefore, is whether acute serotonergic administration induces neural or behavioral changes during motor learning also. Using a sample of 60 female participants (with the possible inclusion of male participants at a later date), the investigators aim to test the effects of a serotonergic challenge on motor learning and plasticity in healthy participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

• female
• right-handed
• healthy
• has taken oral contraceptives (ovulation inhibitor) continuously for at least 3 months
• has read and agreed to study parameters

Exclusion Criteria:

• tattoos on head or neck
• non-removable metal on or in body
• alcohol abuse
• is currently taking medication
• smokes more than 3 cigarettes per day
• positive drug test
• pregnancy
• plays an instrument professionally
• plays videogames more than 2 hours per week
• is a professional athlete
• suffers from migraines
• has taken part in another study, where motor learning skills and/or medication is a factor, in the last 3 months
• heart rhythm disorders (long QT)
• hypertension
• calcium or magnesium deficiency
• neurological disorders
• chronic metabolic disorders
• liver or kidney diseases
• immunodeficiency
• endocrine disorders
• psychiatric disorders
• tumors
• injuries to the head and brain