Mu rhythm
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mu rhythm (μ rhythm) is kind of EEG rhythm of maximal amplitude of somatosensory cortices at rest. It is also called arciform rhythm because of the shape of the waveforms.
[edit] Description
Usually encompassed in the alpha range (8-12Hz), it is strongly suppressed during the performance of contralateral motor acts. Modulation of the μ rhythm is believed to reflect the electrical output of the synchronization of large portions of pyramidal neurons of the motor cortex which control the hand and arm movement when inactive. In an 2004 article, Pineda has proposed that mu rhythm could reflect visuomotor integrative processes, and would "translate seeing and hearing into doing." Indeed, as the mere obsevation of motor acts is sufficient to elicit a modulation of the mu rhythm.
[edit] References
Ernst Niedermeyer, Fernando Lopes da Silva Electroencephalography. Basic principles, Clinical Applications and Related Fields. 3rd edition, Williams & Wilkins Baltimore 1993
