One main focus of research is the cognitive neuroscience of language and executive function, particularly on language learning, bilingual processing and human action monitoring (human error detection and correction processes). In this research we combine the use of different neuroimaging techniques (electrophysiological and magnetic resonance imaging) which are crucial in order to better understand human cognitive functions. Also we have developed new paradigms related to some main research questions: how do we learn a new language? In this respect, we have carried out a large number of experiments with the aim of evaluating and testing different models, which will be further explored using neuroimaging tools. Finally, we have been also studying in which degree genetic variability related to certain neurotransmitters (dopamine) influences cognitive processing, and specially, the way in which we process erroneous actions and reward experiences.
LANGUAGE LEARNING AND HUNTINGTON DISEASE
This research combines information from brain-damaged patients and imaging in healthy individuals to understand whether words and rules of language require different neural and cognitive mechanisms to be acquired since the earliest stages of contact with a new language. We are particularly interested in the role of the striatum as a brain structure that could make the interface between language and other cognitive functions necessary in the learning process.
ACTION MONITORING AND REWARD PROCESSING
In the same line, we are interested is action monitoring and reward processing. The goal is to study the neurophysiological activation patterns generated during the use of executive functions, especially in action monitoring and reward processing, and the relationship between these two systems. It is known that the medial frontal cortex (especially the anterior cingulated cortex) is involved in the processing of cerebral executive functions. Moreover, the reinforcement learning theory suggests that an activation/deactivation of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain could modulate executive functions such as the processing of error, conflict and reward. In this project we study these relations by functional neuroimaging techniques: functional magnetic resonance (fMRI), electro-encephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG). The information provided by these techniques is critical to our understanding of cerebral function. Hence, study of the oscillatory patterns of brain electrical activity enables us to describe several processes that are not accessible by traditional filtering and averaging methods employed in event-related potentials computation. Patterns of high-frequency EEG activity have been related to synchronization of distant neural populations. Given that fMRI studies show that positive outcomes are evaluated by the orchestration of a sparse net of structures related to the emotions and reward processing, its electrical processing could be reflected as beta and gamma (>20 Hz) M/EEG activity. Hence the frequency study of M/EEG activity is not additional information, but critical.
