Forever Alone? Your DNA To Blame – Scientists Say

           Scientists have identified a ‘singleton gene’ that could be to blame for your loneliness.

Chinese scientists at Peking University in Beijing studied several variants of a human gene that could affect relationships between people. They focused on a gene called 5-HTA1 in hair samples from almost 600 students, which affects levels of the mood hormone, serotonin.

One version of the gene, the C variant, leads to higher levels of serotonin than the other form, the G variant. Everyone has two copies of the gene, and inherits two of the C variant, two of the G variant, or one of each, depending on the type passed down from each parent.

Tests revealed that half of those who inherited two copies of the C variant – one from each parent – were in relationships. But students who carried one or two copies of the G variant had only a 40% chance of being in a relationship and are more likely to suffer from depression. The effect was small, but statistically significant.

A relationship expert said, “I know that our genetic heritage determines some of our behaviour but we always have choice. If someone’s difficulties with dating are flagged up to them, I believe they can learn to interact in a way that will make them more successful in meeting somebody.”