Il Laboratorio di Bioingegneria e Neuromeccanica del Movimento ha in corso i seguenti progetti di ricerca nell’ambito dei meccanismi fisiologici:
Unravelling the neural mechanisms underlying muscle weakness: the importance of early detection and treatment through a novel intervention
Sarcopenia involves a rapidly increasing number of individuals in Europe. Thus, early detection and treatment of this condition are of great importance in an ageing society. We aim to unravel the early determinants of sarcopenia, through a novel approach which integrates electrophysiological data, recorded via high-density surface electromyography, and blood-based biomarkers associated with degenerative processes of the neuromuscular system. Furthermore, we evaluate the effects of a home-based intervention with whole-body neuromuscular electrical stimulation on neurophysiological and biological parameters in a cohort of sarcopenic individuals.
Post-Doctoral Researcher: Riccardo Borzuola
Project Coordinator: Andrea Macaluso
In collaboration with: Giuseppe De Vito (Associated Investigator), University of Padua, Chiara Fossati
Financed by: MUR (call PRIN-PNRR 2022)
Combining principles of psychological sciences and fine-tuned physical training to improve quality of life in frail older individuals: a psychological, neurocognitive, neuromechanical, and clinical perspective
Fragility is characterised by multi-systemic decline in cognitive, physical, and social functions, increasing falls risk, disability, mental illness, hospitalisation, and mortality among older people. Exercise-based interventions and cognitive-motor dual-task training (CMDT) are widely recognised as highly effective treatments to counter aging-related physical and mental decline.
The aims of this study are: 1) verify the effectiveness of a new CMDT intervention for fragile and pre-fragile older people, incorporating elements of resistance training, core strengthening, cognitive training and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to improve functional mobility, cognitive functions, psychological well-being (with a focus on mood) and overall quality of life; 2) Identify the consequent neuromuscular and psychophysiological adaptations; 3) Identify new central and peripheral markers to monitor the effectiveness of exercise; and, 4) develop and validate an innovative, safe, and accessible intervention tailored to fragile and pre-fragile older people.
Post-doctoral Researcher: Martina Scalia
Supervisors: Andrea Macaluso, Chiara Fossati, Valentina Camomilla
In collaboration with: Francesco Di Russo (project coordinator), Fabio Pigozzi, Arnaldo Zelli
Financed by: Università Foro Italico (Fondi DM 737/2021 – PNR 2023)
The effects of “Exopulse Mollii Electrosuit” on spinal excitability in spastic Multiple Sclerosis patients
Spasticity is one of the most common symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. It is characterised by increased spinal excitability that causes muscle hypertone, which is most often associated with pain and loss of functional abilities. The “Exopulse Mollii Electrosuit” is a wearable medical device, which sends low threshold electrical stimuli to the muscles. It has been shown that its regular use contributes to the decrease of spasticity symptoms. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms behind these clinical improvements are still unclear. The overall objective of this study is to understand some of the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the use of the Exopulse Mollii Electrosuit in MS patients with symptoms of spasticity. Specifically, the aim is to evaluate changes of spinal excitability, as measured by Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) in the soleus (SOL) muscle, before and after a 1h-single use of the electrosuit.
Post-Doctoral Researcher: Martina Scalia
Supervisor: Andrea Macaluso
In collaboration with: Giovanna Borriello, University of Naples
Neuromuscular mechanisms underlying motor coordination in older adults during dynamic balance control
The gradual age-related changes in neuromuscular control can hinder the ability to maintain balance, increasing the risk of falls and causing difficulties in performing activities of daily living among the elderly. Notably, among various clinical assessments designed for evaluating dynamic balance in older individuals and those with medical conditions, the Functional Reach and Sit-to-Stand tests stand out. The primary aim of this project is to investigate the mechanisms governing motor coordination during these dynamic balance control tasks to uncover potential balance deficits in older adults. Utilising the analysis of muscle synergies alongside kinematic and dynamic patterns can serve as a robust tool for assessing neuromuscular coordination and exploring the underlying motor control strategies, as well as understanding the functional consequences of muscle activation.
Doctoral researcher: Imma Ceriello
Supervisors: Andrea Macaluso, Valentina Camomilla
Neuromuscular mechanisms underlying muscle fatigue in the trunk extensors of healthy older adults
Fatigue resistance of the trunk extensor muscles is associated with mobility in older adults. However, the neuromuscular mechanisms associated with age-related changes in fatigue resistance of these muscles are unclear. When muscle fatigue occurs, changes in the spatial distribution of motor unit activity within a muscle or muscle group play a significant role in modulating motor output. Utilising the high-density surface electromyography, we are currently exploring how aging affects the spatial distribution of lumbar erector spinae activity during a fatiguing task
Doctoral researcher: Martina Parrella
Supervisors: Andrea Macaluso, Maria Francesca Piacentini