Movement variability—once dismissed as mere “noise”—is now recognized as a fundamental feature of neuromotor control, reflecting the dynamic interplay between cortical commands, subcortical modulatory networks, and peripheral feedback. Controlled fluctuations in kinematic, kinetic, and neural signals underpin adaptability, skill acquisition, and resilience to perturbations. This collection examines how movement variability emerges from neural circuit architecture and informs both healthy function and compensatory strategies after injury.

We welcome theoretical contributions that leverage frameworks such as dynamical systems theory, optimal feedback control, and the concepts of redundancy and degeneracy in motor networks. Experimental studies applying nonlinear metrics (e.g., entropy, fractal dynamics, Lyapunov exponents) or network analyses (electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography (EEG/MEG) connectivity, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)-based graph theory) to quantify complexity at multiple levels of the sensorimotor hierarchy are encouraged. This collection also highlights neurophysiological investigations into variability biomarkers for neurological disorders. Submissions may explore how altered variability profiles signal early Parkinson’s disease, predict fall risk in elderly and post-stroke cohorts, or distinguish cerebellar ataxia subtypes. Integrative studies combining motion capture, inertial measurement units, and EMG coherence analyses to map the neural origins of variability are especially valued.

Translational research is sought on neurorehabilitation strategies that harness movement variability to drive plasticity. We invite reports on variable-practice training, robotic perturbation protocols, and virtual/augmented reality interventions that use controlled unpredictability to optimize motor relearning. Contributions demonstrating how individualized variability metrics can guide therapy dosing and monitor recovery will bridge bench to bedside.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Theoretical Frameworks for Movement Variability: The application of dynamical systems theory—where variability reflects the exploration of stable attractor states—stochastic optimal control—where trial-to-trial fluctuations balance exploration and exploitation—and redundancy or degeneracy in the motor system—where multiple solutions create flexible movement patterns—shows how the nervous system actively modulates variability to enhance performance and learning.

• Neurophysiological Evidence: EEG /MEG, fMRI, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Electromyography (EMG) synergy analyses linking variability to network dynamics and synaptic plasticity.

• Biomechanical and Electrophysiological Metrics of Variability: Nonlinear measures—such as sample entropy for gait cycle irregularity, fractal dimension for scale-invariant joint-angle patterns, and Lyapunov exponents for postural stability—are used to assess movement variability in posture, walking, and upper-limb tasks.

• Movement Disorders and Diagnostics: Variability signatures in Parkinson’s disease, stroke, cerebral palsy, and ataxia—and their use in early detection and monitoring.

• Rehabilitation Strategies: Variable-practice protocols, error-augmentation, robotic perturbations, and virtual-reality paradigms designed to harness variability for neuroplasticity and functional recovery.

By uniting neuroscientists, neurologists, biomechanists, and rehabilitation specialists, this collection aims to translate foundational insights into patient-centered interventions that optimize motor function, prevent falls, and accelerate recovery across neurological populations.

Keywords: movement variability, motor control, biomechanics, adaptability, performance, rehabilitation, neurophysiology, motor learning, complexity.

Peripheral nerve injuries, often resulting from traumatic events, continue to pose significant clinical challenges, frequently leading to long-term functional deficits and reduced quality of life. Although peripheral nerves exhibit an intrinsic capacity for regeneration, optimal functional recovery remains elusive. This underscores an urgent need for neuroscience-informed strategies that enhance repair mechanisms, promote neuroplasticity, and lead to improved clinical outcomes.

This Article Collection seeks to unite breakthroughs from neuroscience, regenerative medicine, and bioengineering to address the complexities of peripheral nerve repair. Emphasis is placed on elucidating the neural signaling pathways, cellular processes, and mechanical forces that govern peripheral nerve regeneration. Recent advances in biomaterials, growth factor delivery, cellular therapies, and advanced neurosurgical techniques offer promising avenues to augment the natural regenerative process and restore neurological function.

We invite original research, comprehensive reviews, and clinical studies that delve into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of peripheral nerve regeneration after trauma, including investigations into neurotrophic factor signaling, extracellular matrix modulation, and the role of Schwann cells in facilitating axonal growth. We also welcome contributions that focus on innovative biomaterial scaffolds, stem cell and other cellular therapies, neuroimaging and neuromodulatory strategies, as well as novel surgical techniques for peripheral nerve regeneration after trauma. By integrating insights from basic neuroscience with clinical applications, this collection aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and translate laboratory discoveries into effective, patient-centered therapies.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Mechanisms of Regeneration & Neural Plasticity: Intracellular signaling cascades, Schwann-cell dynamics, and activity-dependent axon guidance.

• Biomaterials & Scaffold Technologies: Conduit microarchitecture, biochemical functionalization, and mechanotransduction for directed axonal extension.

• Cellular Therapies: Applications of stem cells, Schwann-like cells, exosomes, and genetically engineered cell populations.

• Neurotrophic & Neurotransmitter Signaling: Roles of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor, and neurotransmitter-mediated modulation in axon sprouting and remyelination.

• Advanced Electrophysiological & Imaging Platforms: High-resolution ultrasound, diffusion tensor imaging, nerve conduction studies, and EMG for real-time monitoring of regeneration.

• Surgical & Neuromodulatory Innovations: Microsurgical nerve grafting, end-to-end and end-to-side suturing techniques, and electrical stimulation modalities (TENS, implantable nerve cuff stimulators) to enhance functional recovery.

Keywords: neurology, peripheral nerve, nerve regeneration, trauma, neuroplasticity, biomaterials, cellular therapies, neuroimaging.