The ability to withhold and stop actions, and divide, switch and sustain attention are processes of

executive functioning, which are impaired in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Our previous studies on TBI

have shown that impairments in cognitive and executive control functions are accompanied by a

disrupted neural connectivity characterized by white matter damage. In the present project, we will

investigate whether a training program can promote improvement in executive functioning. Using

an array of state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, including multicomponent

relaxometry and quantitative magnetization transfer imaging, we will investigate

whether changes in cognition are supported by neuroplastic modulations in brain structure and

connectivity. Furthermore, we will investigate the biological correlates of the white matter changes

observed in patients by means of an animal model of TBI with a similar long-term cognitive training

protocol. Our findings may ultimately lead to the identification of biomarkers that provide

invaluable information on the mechanisms through which a training can alleviate cognitive

symptoms in TBI.