Activity of single action potentials in monkey motor cortex during long-term task learning.

Studies using continuous recording of neural activity during long-term learning are now possible with an implanted neurotrophic electrode. During recording of individual cortical action potentials in monkeys performing a reach and grasp task, we were able to follow the gradual change in firing of several action potentials as the task was learned. Control experiments suggest that the neurons involved in the learning were initially silent.