Hippocampus proper
Hippocampus (Medicine)
Hippocampus (pronunciation: /hɪˈpɒkəmpəs/) is a significant part of the brain's limbic system, which is associated with the formation and retrieval of memories, as well as spatial navigation. The term "hippocampus" is derived from the Greek words "hippos" (horse) and "kampos" (sea monster), due to its seahorse-like shape.
Etymology
The term "hippocampus" was first used in the field of neuroanatomy in the 1580s by Julius Caesar Arantius, because he thought it resembled a seahorse, particularly in the curled structure of the tail. The term is derived from the Greek words "hippos" (horse) and "kampos" (sea monster).
Function
The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the formation of new memories and is also involved in learning. It is part of the limbic system, a complex system of nerves and networks in the brain, involving several areas near the edge of the cortex concerned with instinct and mood. It also controls the basic emotions (fear, pleasure, anger) and drives (hunger, sex, dominance, care of offspring).
Related Terms
- Amygdala: A part of the limbic system that plays a key role in processing emotions.
- Cerebrum: The largest part of the brain, responsible for all voluntary activities of the body.
- Neuron: A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hippocampus proper
- Wikipedia's article - Hippocampus proper
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