Want to be a winner? It really is mind over matter: Study discovers the brain circuits that decide whether fights are won or lost

Sports stars such as Sir Steve Redgrave and Muhammad Ali claim a positive mental attitude is the most important part of preparing for a big race or bout in the ring. Now scientists have uncovered the uncovered the physical circuits in the brain that determine whether a fight will be won or lost. Deep within the brain, in a structure called the habenula, two neural circuits work in a complex interplay to influence the outcome of a battle. Scientists have uncovered the uncovered the physical circuits in the brain that determine whether a fight will be won or lost. This image shows changes in nerve excitation from the habenula region in a winner and loser zebrafish.