The mammillary bodies and memory: from encoding to consolidation  

The devastating effects of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease underline the importance of our memories. Understanding how our brains support memory is a scientific challenge. A network of brain structures that includes the mammillary bodies (MBs) are required for normal memory. MBs are typically linked to memory encoding, but little is known about their contributions to memory beyond this point. My recent research suggests that MBs may also be necessary for aspects of memory consolidation. 

I will test this prediction using complementary techniques and a cross-species approach. I will examine how MBs contribute to memory formation beyond the encoding stage, focusing on sleep-related consolidation. 

My research will help generate better models of memory function in both healthy and diseased states.