Creating a molecular map for happiness

Matter’s clinical research is dedicated to finding a universal biomarker for happiness. By studying participants’ brain activity in MRIs, Matter has mapped the activity of six neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for human happiness: dopamine, testosterone, serotonin, oxytocin, cannabinoids, and opioids.

Brain imagery created from Matter Neuroscience clinical study data.

Activating these neurotransmitters makes us feel good, helps us create memories, and builds neuroplasticity in our brains.

In the near-term, increases in neuroplasticity help us grow into smarter, more empathetic, and more creative humans. Over the long-term, higher levels of neuroplasticity correlate with longer, healthier, happier lives.

Bibliography and references

Matter’s scientific advisory board

Professor Zahi Fayad
Lucy G. Moses Professor of Medical Imaging and Bioengineering at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, US

Professor Rainer Goebel
Maastricht University, Netherlands

Professor Konstantin Nikolaou
Professor & Chairman, Dept. of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Germany

Professor Daniella Schiller
Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Meik Wiking
Happiness Research Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark

Matter’s research

A new framework for understanding human happiness

— Matter Neuroscience

Matter Neuroscience is working to address our global mental health challenge by unifying the fields of positive psychology, high field brain imaging technology, and molecular neuroscience to help individuals cultivate happiness in their daily lives. This unique study program has developed universal biological tools to provide personalized, actionable guidance for living a happier life. This paper outlines the Matter approach and the science behind it.

Download the White Paper PDF

It all begins with dopamine.

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