What role does the hippocampus play in memory?

The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the formation of new memories and learning. It is primarily involved in the consolidation process, which is the transformation of short-term memories into long-term memories. When new information is acquired, the hippocampus helps encode this information before it is transferred to other areas of the brain for long-term storage.

One of the key functions associated with the hippocampus is its involvement in declarative memory, which includes facts and events that can be consciously recalled. This aspect of memory relies heavily on the hippocampus in the initial stages of processing. Without a properly functioning hippocampus, an individual may find it challenging to form new memories, demonstrating the importance of this brain structure in learning and remembering new information.

In contrast, while aspects of memory storage and procedural memory (which involves skills and actions) are important in the broader context of memory systems, they do not specifically highlight the primary function of the hippocampus. Additionally, the processing of sensory information occurs in different parts of the brain, such as the sensory cortices, rather than being a direct function of the hippocampus.