Corticospinal and Reticulospinal Control of Human Motor Units Following Resistance Training

Resistance training leads to significant neuromuscular adaptations, but the precise neural mechanisms remain unclear. While the corticospinal system has been extensively studied, the role of the reticulospinal pathway in motor unit plasticity is not well understood. This research aims to investigate the interplay between corticospinal and reticulospinal control of human motor units following resistance training. Using advanced techniques such as high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), this project will examine changes in motor unit recruitment, discharge characteristics, and synchronisation. Additionally, the study will assess corticospinal and reticulospinal excitability through motor evoked potentials (MEPs), providing insight into the neural adaptations induced by resistance training. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of neuromuscular plasticity, with potential applications in rehabilitation, athletic performance, and motor control disorders. This project offers an exciting opportunity for a PhD candidate to engage in cutting-edge neurophysiological research with implications for both fundamental neuroscience and applied movement science.