What Does the Mammillary Bodies Do?

The primary function associated with the mammillary bodies is recollective memory. Memory information begins within the hippocampus. Theta waves activate CA3 neurons in the hippocampus.

What are the mammillary bodies in the brain?

The mammillary bodies are a pair of small round bodies, located on the undersurface of the brain that, as part of the diencephalon, form part of the limbic system. They are located at the ends of the anterior arches of the fornix.

What is the role of the mammillary bodies in the processing of olfaction?

The overall route, from the amygdalae to the thalamus, is often referred to as the Papez circuit. Along with the dorsomedial and anterior nuclei of the thalamus, each mammilary body plays in active role in how recognitional memory is processed. Some believe the bodies add sensory smell detail to stored memories.