Wakeful targeted memory reactivation during short rest periods modulates early motor learning

This study investigated whether wakeful targeted memory reactivation (TMR) during short rest intervals improves motor learning. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups and performed a sequential key-press task under each condition: (1) TMR_regular group: auditory cues played at the same speed as the previous task, (2) TMR_fast group: auditory cues played 1.3 times faster, and (3) TMR_random group: auditory cues randomized in pitch. To examine the motor learning effect of cue structure, we compared motor learning across three groups (TMR_regular, TMR_fast, and TMR_random). The TMR_fast group enhanced early learning gains compared with the TMR_regular group. Electroencephalogram data revealed stronger functional connectivity centered on the lateral orbitofrontal cortex (lOFC) in the TMR_fast group than in the TMR_regular group. Together, these findings suggest that wakeful TMR can enhance early motor learning depending on cue timing and structure, highlighting the importance of optimizing sensory parameters for learning improvement.