Investigating Electrophysiological Lateralization of Upper Limb Movements through Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) during Motor Execution and Imagery Tasks

The electroencephalogram (EEG) is used in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to assist in the rehabilitation of patients with injuries that compromise limb movement. EEG signals include slow cortical potentials, specially P300 and N400 components, and alpha, beta recorded on the scalp. Previous studies have shown an asymmetric motor activation between the two cerebral hemispheres, with greater activation of the contralateral area during tasks. This lateralization can help BCIs discriminate the signal or its communication target. However, other studies showed greater activation of the left hemisphere during left-hand movement in right-handed volunteers. To improve the control of noninvasive BCI devices, it is essential to differentiate neural signals from the EEG, especially in the context of lateralization.