The mirror neuron system in typically and atypically developing children: Evolution, dysfunction and rehabilitative purpose. A systematic review.
Antea Scrocco, Francesca Ferragina, Carolina Bianucci et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review examines the development and dysfunction of the Mirror Neuron System (MNS) in typically and atypically developing children. It highlights that the MNS is active in early infancy but becomes more specialized with development. The review identifies that atypical neurodevelopmental processes can affect MNS activation, particularly in conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy, and suggests a potential link between MNS-related neuroplasticity and rehabilitation outcomes.
Key findings
- The MNS is active in early infancy but becomes increasingly specialized and lateralized with development.
- Atypical neurodevelopmental processes lead to different MNS activations in disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Coordination Disorder.
- Preliminary evidence indicates a link between rehabilitation outcomes and MNS-related neuroplasticity in children with Cerebral Palsy.
Why it matters
Understanding the development and function of the MNS is crucial for clinicians as it may inform interventions and rehabilitation strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, potentially improving outcomes.