Gene research finds opposites do attract
The bond of true love may be forged in the genes as well as in the mind, researchers have found.A comparative survey of couples suggests people are more attracted to those who have very different immunity genes from their own, even though they are not aware of it.The genes in question play a major role in the immune system's ability to fight infections, but they are also thought to leave a lingering trace in the scent of people's body odour.The scientist who led the study believes humans have evolved to sniff out partners who have different immunity genes because they tend to produce healthier children with stronger immune systems."It may be tempting to think that humans choose their partners because of their similarities," said Maria da Graça Bicalho, a professor of immunology at the University of Paraná in Brazil. "[But] our research has shown clearly that it is differences that...
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