Hypothalamic Supramammillary Control of Cognition and Motivation
Andrew J. Kesner, Marjan Mozaffarilegha, Keerthi Thirtamara Rajamani, Yosuke Arima, Hala Harony‐Nicolas, Yuki Hashimotodani, Hiroshi Ito, Juan Song, Satoshi Ikemoto
Abstract
The supramammillary nucleus (SuM) is a small region in the ventromedial posterior hypothalamus. The SuM has been relatively understudied with much of the prior focus being on its connection with septo-hippocampal circuitry. Thus, most studies conducted until the 21st century examined its role in hippocampal processes, such as theta rhythm and learning/memory. In recent years, the SuM has been "rediscovered" as a crucial hub for several behavioral and cognitive processes, including reward-seeking, exploration, and social memory. Additionally, it has been shown to play significant roles in hippocampal plasticity and adult neurogenesis. This review highlights findings from recent studies using cutting-edge systems neuroscience tools that have shed light on these fascinating roles for the SuM.