Mind-Brain Lecture: Marcelo Berthier (Malaga)
The talk by Professor Berthier will provide a superb synthesis of mind and brain topics - by addressing the improvement of neurological language deficits with methods that combine cognitive-linguistic therapy and neuropharmacological intervention. The results show that a combination of choices from both cognitive and neuro methods yields the best outcomes.
Host: Friedemann Pulvermueller
Abstract:
Neuronal connections and cortical maps in both cerebral hemispheres can be remodeled in both healthy subjects and brain damaged individuals by experience (brain plasticity). This activity-dependent modification of synaptic strength and reorganization of cortical areas is also modulated by behavioural interventions as well as by the interplay of different central neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, glutamate). This evidence opens the possibility to simultaneously treat aphasic deficits with drugs and speech-language therapy. The rationale for using this combined intervention in persons with post-stroke aphasia is that drugs may prime brain structure for a better response to behavioural interventions. During the last decade, we have performed open-label and randomized controlled trials using a cholinesterase inhibitor (Donepezil) or a NMDA receptor antagonist (Memantine) combined with intensive speech language therapy (constraintinduced aphasia therapy) in persons with chronic post-stroke aphasia. These interventions
were extremely successful in ameliorating not only deficits in language and everyday communication. Cholinergic stimulation, but not glutamatergic leveraging, additionally improved deficits in visual attention, depression and reduced goal-directed behavior (apathy). Gains in language, communication, attentional, and mood/motivation domains were correlated with functional and/or structural plasticity in both cerebral hemispheres as well as in areas important for emotional regulation.
Marcelo L. Berthier
Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit
Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias (CIMES)
University of Malaga, Spain
All are welcome.
