This volume of Progess in Brain Research follows on from the 32nd International Symposium of the Groupe de recherche sur le système nerveux central (GRSNC), May 2010, and aims to provide an overview of the various neural mechanisms that contribute to learning new motor and sensory skills, and to adapting to changed circumstances, including the use of devices and implants to substitute for lost sensory or motor abilities (brain machine interfaces). The focus is on recent developments covering five major themes: Mechanisms to improve motor performance Neuro-rehabilitation of motor function Mechanisms to enhance sensory perception Cross modal interationc for enhancing sensorimotor performance Assistive technologies to enhance sensorimotor performance