The hippocampus is a rhomboid shaped brain structure that is located in the medial temporal lobe. It is one of the most important structures for memory and learning. The hippocampus gets its name from its shape, which resembles a seahorse.
The main function of the hippocampus is to consolidate short-term memories into long-term memories. This process is known as memory consolidation. Without the hippocampus, we would not be able to remember events that happened to us in the past. The hippocampus is also important for spatial navigation and remembering how to get from one place to another.
The hippocampus is made up of two parts: the dentate gyrus and the CA3 region. The dentate gyrus helps to create new memories while the CA3 region helps us recall old memories. Both of these regions are essential for normal memory function.
One of the most interesting things about the hippocampus is that it can regenerate new cells throughout our lifetime. This process, known as neurogenesis, helps keep our brains healthy as we age and may even help protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.