Research single-gene 5-HTA1 is supposed to make lonely

Researchers have discovered the alleged single gene 5-HTA1. It should be responsible for the loneliness of many people.

28/11/2014

Are single people not responsible for their loneliness? Is it specific genes that make some people to live alone? These questions were investigated by a Chinese research team at Peking University. You have according to your own information „found a gene that may be responsible for relationship pitch“. A large-scale study involved 600 young women and men.

The study is based on 600 hair samples from students who have been genetically examined. Thus, it appears that the gene 5-HTA1 is responsible for single-sex. According to the researchers, the gene has effects on the happiness hormone serotonin. One variant of the gene (C variant) promotes hormone production, while another variant (G variant) inhibits production.

Influence of genes on relationship behavior known
Previous studies have shown that genes have a significant impact on the number of sexual partners and the duration of a relationship. In addition, it has been proven that people with low serotonin levels feel less well in relationships than people with high serotonin levels.

In the present study, the researchers came to the conclusion that 60 percent of the subjects with the G variant of the gene single, while there were only 50 percent in subjects with the C variant. This is statistically relevant, as the researchers report in the journal Scientific Reports. Accordingly, in subjects with the gene 5-HTA1, the risk of singletasis increased by 20 percent compared to subjects with the C variant of the gene.

Character influences relationship status
In addition, the study concludes that subjects with the G variant of the gene are more prone to neurosis, depression, and borderline. „Because pessimism and neuroticism are detrimental to the formation, quality, and stability of relationships, this connection can negatively affect the love life“, write the study authors.

„However, one should be careful with the interpretation of the present results. Because the control group is "limited to students who are relatively free of family, social and economic constraints and therefore relatively free to decide whether they enter into a relationship or not." To what extent the gene alone "has an influence on the relationship formation is unclear and must therefore be explored in further studies." Nevertheless, it is clear that "the gene influences the relationship status". However, despite the influence of the genes we have a choice in terms of relationship formation. And German researchers also dismiss: "The study is hardly secured and implemented only with students," it says. "Those who have relationship problems, these can best meet in the context of a psychotherapy," said Gritli Bertram of Winicott Institute in Hannover. (Sb)