Task-related modulation of SICI underlies effects of sex and hemisphere

Background: Cortical excitability is modulated before movement onset in the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1). It underlies changes across lifespan and has been shown to be deficient in several neurological diseases. Influences of sex and hemisphere on cortical excitability at rest have been described previously. Here, a meta-analysis of previously analyzed healthy subpopulations was conducted regarding the main effects of sex, hemisphere, and age on modulation of M1 excitability during movement preparation. Methods: Single and paired-pulse TMS was used to examine modulation of cortical excitability, i.e.…