The word "hippocampus major" is often misspelled due to the complexity of its spelling. This term refers to a specific area of the brain responsible for memory and spatial navigation. Phonetically, "hippocampus" is pronounced as /hɪpəˈkæmpəs/ with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word "major" is pronounced as /ˈmeɪdʒər/. The combination of these two words may appear daunting, but with consistent practice and attention to detail, one can spell "hippocampus major" with ease.
The hippocampus major, also known as the Ammon's horn, is a key brain structure located within the medial temporal lobe. It is an essential component of the limbic system, playing a crucial role in memory formation, learning, and spatial navigation.
The hippocampus major consists of two major divisions: the cornu ammonis (CA) and the dentate gyrus. The CA region is further subdivided into four subfields: CA1, CA2, CA3, and CA4. These subfields are responsible for processing and integrating incoming sensory information, as well as forming new memories and facts by linking different pieces of information together.
The dentate gyrus is characterized by its densely packed cells and its curved appearance. It acts as a gatekeeper, regulating the flow of information into the hippocampus. This region is primarily involved in pattern separation, distinguishing between similar experiences or memories to ensure individual distinctiveness.
The hippocampus major receives input from various sensory areas of the brain, namely the neocortex, and sends output to different brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex. Additionally, it has extensive connections with other substructures within the limbic system, such as the amygdala and the entorhinal cortex.
Lesions or damage to the hippocampus major can lead to severe memory deficits, particularly in the formation of new memories. Patients with hippocampal damage may struggle with remembering recent events, recognizing familiar faces, or acquiring new skills.
In summary, the hippocampus major is a vital brain structure involved in memory formation, learning, and spatial navigation. Its distinct subfields and complex connections enable the integration and consolidation of information, contributing to our cognitive abilities and overall functioning.
Larger h., hippocampus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "hippocampus major" is derived from the Latin words "hippocampus" and "major".
The word "hippocampus" comes from the Greek word "hippokampos", which literally means "sea monster" or "horse-sea monster". In Greek mythology, the hippocampus was described as a creature with the upper body of a horse and the tail of a fish. The anatomical structure known as the hippocampus was so named because of its resemblance to the shape of this mythological creature.
The word "major" is the Latin word for "larger" or "greater", indicating that the hippocampus major is a larger component of the hippocampus. The term "major" is used to distinguish it from the "hippocampus minor", which refers to the smaller parts of the hippocampus.