**Core Concept**
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to neuronal loss and cognitive decline. The disease primarily affects the **temporal lobe**, particularly the **hippocampus**, and other areas of the brain involved in memory and learning.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves the **hippocampus**, a structure within the temporal lobe that plays a crucial role in memory formation and spatial navigation. Alzheimer's disease pathology is characterized by the deposition of amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein tangles, which disrupt normal neuronal function and lead to neuronal death. The hippocampus is particularly vulnerable to these changes, resulting in significant memory impairments.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The **cerebellum** is primarily involved in motor coordination and balance, and is not directly affected by Alzheimer's disease pathology.
**Option B:** The **basal ganglia** are involved in movement control and are affected in disorders such as Parkinson's disease, but are not the primary site of pathology in Alzheimer's disease.
**Option C:** The **cerebral cortex** is the outer layer of the brain involved in various higher-order functions, including sensory perception and language processing. While the cerebral cortex is affected by Alzheimer's disease, it is not the specific nucleus involved.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The hippocampus is a critical structure for memory formation, and its involvement in Alzheimer's disease highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent further cognitive decline.

**Correct Answer:** C.