Final answer:
It is false that the hippocampus is part of the HPA axis, though it does help to regulate its activity. The HPA axis consists of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is associated with memory and learning and is part of the limbic system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is false; the hippocampus is not part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is a system that controls reaction to stress and regulates many body processes, including digestion, the immune system, mood and emotions, sexuality, and energy storage and expenditure. This axis includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, but not the hippocampus. However, the hippocampus is closely related to the HPA axis as it is involved in controlling its activity by regulating the negative feedback inhibition of cortisol, the stress hormone that the HPA axis secretes.
The hippocampus is a structure in the temporal lobe associated with learning and memory, most notably declarative and episodic memory. It is part of the limbic system, which includes the amygdala, thalamus, and hypothalamus, and is involved in mediating emotional responses and memory processes.