Neural Synchronization During Gesture Production and Comprehension in Individuals With Aphasia and Healthy Controls: A Study Using EEG Hyperscanning

Neural Synchronization During Gesture Production and Comprehension in Individuals With Aphasia and Healthy Controls: A Study Using EEG Hyperscanning

This study explores the neural mechanisms of gesture comprehension and production in people with aphasia (PWA) and healthy controls, focusing on brain synchronization during gesture observation and reproduction. Using EEG hyperscanning, neural coupling between the encoder (PWA) and decoder (healthy participant) was analyzed during tasks involving social, affective, and informative gestures with both positive and negative emotional valence.

Gestures are essential in non-verbal communication, complementing speech by expressing emotions, intentions, and cognitive states. This study examines neural mechanisms of gesture comprehension and production in people with aphasia (PWA) and healthy controls, focusing on brain synchronization during gesture observation and reproduction. Using EEG hyperscanning, we analyzed neural coupling between the encoder (PWA) and decoder (healthy participant) during tasks involving social, affective, and informative gestures with both positive and negative emotional valence. Methods: Seven dyads of participants participated in this study. The research was approved by the Ethical Committee of the IRCCS San CamilloHospital

Inclusion Criteria:

Age ≥ 18 years Diagnosis of left-sided stroke Clinical diagnosis of aphasia Native language: Italian (L1 Italian)

Exclusion Criteria:

History of psychiatric disorders