Dossier
serotonin
Coverage of serotonin in the Nexus archive.
- Scientists reveal surprising brain benefit of laughter: 'It's a mental workout'
Research by Dr. Jacqueline Harding suggests laughter and play are crucial for children's brain development, emotional well-being, and social bonding. Laughter activates brain networks, reduces stress hormones, and increases 'happiness chemicals' like dopamine and serotonin, while fostering resilience and creativity.
- The brain’s “feel good” chemical may be secretly fueling tinnitus
Scientists have found that serotonin may worsen tinnitus, and this discovery may explain why some people experience louder ringing in their ears while taking SSRIs. The findings are based on a study using advanced light-based brain stimulation in mice. Researchers identified a serotonin-driven circuit linked directly to tinnitus-like behavior.