Maria Caputo

Dr. Maria Caputo


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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11 July 2026 in Life
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
MCMaria Caputo
Maria Caputo
DGDavide Giannuzzi
Davide Giannuzzi
SBStefano Bonomi
Stefano Bonomi
CPChiara Piccininni
Chiara Piccininni
CCCristina Cuccagna
Cristina Cuccagna
Augusto FuscoAugusto Fusco
Augusto Fusco
Background: Alterations in corticospinal and intracortical excitability are frequently observed following a stroke. Cortical plasticity and reorganization after stroke can be assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) measures. These include Motor Threshold (MT) and Motor Evoked Potential (MEP) obtained from single-pulse TMS and Short-Interval Intracortical inhibition (SICI) and Intracortical Facilitation (ICF) obtained from Paired-Pulse Paradigms (ppTMS). Objective: This narrative review aims to provide an update on the most relevant studies and clinically interpret alterations in excitability measures from ppTMS studies following a stroke, focusing on the effects of stroke on MT, MEP, SICI, and ICF in both hemispheres. Additionally, we analyze intracortical disinhibition across different stages of recovery and the implications for inter-hemispheric competition during recovery. Literature search strategy: Studies investigating corticospinal excitability and intracortical inhibition/facilitation after stroke using ppTMS paradigms were reviewed. The main neurophysiological outcomes included MT, MEP amplitude, SICI, and ICF, comparing the affected and unaffected hemispheres and healthy controls. Results: The reviewed literature consistently demonstrates reduced corticospinal excitability in the affected hemisphere, characterized by an increased MT and decreased MEP amplitude. Conversely, intracortical inhibitory and facilitatory circuits appear to be altered after stroke. Reduced SICI and modified ICF patterns suggest cortical disinhibition. Conclusions: Assessments based on ppTMS can be considered significant indicators of post-stroke cortical reorganization. Cortical motor inhibition may have an adaptable or stage-specific role, potentially beneficial in the acute and subacute stages, but harmful if it continues beyond the chronic phase.