Hippocampal sulcus

Hippocampal Commissure

The Hippocampal Commissure (also known as the commissure of fornix, psalterium, or lyra) is a significant structure in the brain that connects the two hippocampi, which are integral to the limbic system and play crucial roles in memory and spatial navigation.

Anatomy

The hippocampal commissure is located in the ventricular system of the brain, specifically within the third ventricle. It is a part of the larger fornix structure, which is a bundle of nerve fibers that carry signals from the hippocampus to the mammillary bodies and then to the anterior thalamic nuclei.

Function

The primary function of the hippocampal commissure is to facilitate communication between the two hippocampi. This communication is essential for the consolidation of long-term memory, as well as for spatial memory and navigation. The hippocampal commissure also plays a role in seizure propagation, particularly in temporal lobe epilepsy.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or damage to the hippocampal commissure can lead to a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions. These include Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. In particular, a reduced size of the hippocampal commissure has been associated with Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

See Also

• Hippocampus
• Fornix (brain)
• Memory
• Spatial navigation
• Alzheimer's disease
• Schizophrenia
• Epilepsy