Papez Circuit

Synonyms

Limbic circuit

Definition

A major loop circuit of the limbic system was originally discovered in the cat brain by Dr. James Papez in 1937. Together with other limbic-associated structures, the Papez circuit functions primarily in the cortical control of emotion and memory storage and contains centers that regulate aversion and gratification.

Current Knowledge

Beginning with neurons in the subiculum of the hippocampus, axons project via the fornix to the medial mammillary nucleus of the hypothalamus. Axons from the medial nucleus then project as the mamillothalamic tract to the anterior nucleus of the thalamus, which sends connections to the cortex of the cingulate gyrus. Output from the cingulate gyrus forms the cingulum that connects to the entorhinal cortex and completes the circuit with terminations in the subiculum and hippocampus. Additional structures associated with the Papez circuit include the prefrontal cortex, septum, and amygdala. Damage to limbic structures...