Trait representation of embodied cognition in dancers pivoting on the extended mirror neuron system: a resting-state fMRI study

IntroductionDance is an art form that integrates the body and mind through movement. Dancers develop exceptional physical and mental abilities that involve various neurocognitive processes linked to embodied cognition. We propose that dancers' primary trait representation is movement-actuated and relies on the extended mirror neuron system (eMNS). MethodsA total of 29 dancers and 28 non-dancer controls were recruited. A hierarchical approach of intra-regional and inter-regional functional connectivity (FC) analysis was adopted to probe trait-like neurodynamics within and between regions in the eMNS during rest. Correlation analyses were employed to examine the associations between dance training, creativity, and the FC within and between different brain regions. ResultsWithin the eMNS, dancers exhibited increased intra-regional FC in various brain regions compared to non-dancers. These regions include the left inferior frontal gyrus, left ventral premotor cortex, left anterior insula, left posterior cerebellum (crus II), and bilateral basal ganglia (putamen and globus pallidus). Dancers also exhibited greater intrinsic inter-regional FC between the cerebellum and the core/limbic mirror areas within the eMNS. In dancers, there was a negative correlation observed between practice intensity and the intrinsic FC within the eMNS involving the cerebellum and basal ganglia. Additionally, FCs from the basal ganglia to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex were found to be negatively correlated with originality in dancers. DiscussionOur results highlight the proficient communication within the cortical-subcortical hierarchy of the eMNS in dancers, linked to the automaticity and cognitive-motor interactions acquired through training. Altered functional couplings in the eMNS can be regarded as a unique neural signature specific to virtuoso dancers, which might predispose them for skilled dancing performance, perception, and creation.

Automated summary

This study found that dancers exhibited higher intra-regional functional connectivity in brain regions such as the frontal cortex, motor cortex, insula, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. They also showed greater intrinsic inter-regional functional connectivity between the cerebellum and the core/limbic mirror areas within the extended mirror neuron system (eMNS). Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between dance training intensity and intrinsic functional connectivity within the eMNS, as well as a negative correlation between functional connections from the basal ganglia to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and originality in dancers.