The Hippocampus is a major component of the brain located in the medial temporal lobe, playing a pivotal role in the consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory and in spatial navigation. It is a highly plastic structure, meaning it can change and adapt, and it is also one of the few brain regions where adult neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons, occurs. Its function is exquisitely sensitive to circulating stress hormones and gonadal steroids.
Origin
The name originates from the Greek word hippokampos, meaning seahorse, due to its curved shape which resembles the marine animal in cross-section. Its functional origin in neuroscience is tied to early clinical cases, notably Patient H.M., whose severe amnesia following bilateral hippocampal removal revealed its necessity for forming new explicit memories. In endocrinology, its relevance stems from its high density of glucocorticoid and estrogen receptors, establishing it as a key nexus for the stress and reproductive axes.
Mechanism
The hippocampus’s mechanism involves long-term potentiation (LTP), a persistent strengthening of synapses based on recent patterns of activity, which is considered a cellular mechanism for learning and memory. Chronic stress, through elevated cortisol, can impair LTP and reduce neurogenesis, leading to memory deficits and atrophy of the structure. Conversely, hormones like estrogen and progesterone can enhance synaptic plasticity and protect hippocampal neurons, underscoring its role as a major neuroendocrine target.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.