Aging is associated with alterations in neurochemistry of the brain, which can be assessed by MR spectroscopy. However, it’s unclear which metabolites are critical for function of the motor network. We explored whether changes in the neurometabolites of the aging brain account for motor-declines in bimanual coordination. We focused on neurochemistry of motor-occipital cortices as both regions are nodes of sensorimotor network underlying bimanual control. Myo-inositol was relevant for predicting Perdue test, which examine manual dexterity and general bimanual skills whereas N-acetylaspartate was associated with bimanual coordination task. Findings indicate NAA and mI could serve as biomarkers for integrity of motor network.
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