Final answer:
The medial temporal cortex, specifically including the hippocampus and the amygdala, is central to the formation and consolidation of long-term memories, as evidenced by studies of patient HM. These structures are critical for moving short-term memories to long-term storage, an understanding gained through the observation of patients with medial temporal lobe damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Medial Temporal Cortex in Memory Processing
The medial temporal cortex is heavily involved in various types of memory functions. Key structures within the medial temporal lobe, such as the hippocampus and the amygdala, play crucial roles in the storage and retrieval of memories. The landmark case of patient HM, who underwent a bilateral temporal lobectomy, helped scientists understand the significance of these structures. This procedure led to the finding that while short-term and procedural memory can remain intact, the ability to form new long-term episodic memories is profoundly affected after removal of medial temporal lobe structures. The hippocampus, in particular, is essential for consolidating short-term memories from the pre-frontal lobe into long-term memories within the temporal lobe. The amygdala is also involved in processing emotions, which can be integral to forming lasting memories.