The dopamine receptor gene may influence marital infidelity

American scientists have discovered a link between a tendency to cheat and a specific variant of the dopamine receptor gene. The study, conducted by researchers at the State University of New York at Binghamton, involved 181 volunteers who were surveyed about their sexual behavior and then had DNA samples taken for analysis. It turned out that a significant proportion of the participants had had at least one extramarital affair.

The scientists focused on the DRD4 gene, which encodes the D4 dopamine receptor. Previous studies have shown that variants of this gene influence human behavior in areas such as risk-taking, novelty seeking, food reward, and power. The scientists hypothesized that DRD4 may also play a role in the development of a propensity for sexual adventure.

The results of the analysis showed that people with the 7R+ variant of the D4 receptor are more likely to cheat. Half of those with this genotype admitted to at least one extramarital affair or casual sex with a stranger. Among participants without this variant, such incidents occurred in only 22 percent of cases.

Interestingly, the observed association was independent of the participants' gender. This suggests that genetic predisposition manifests itself in both men and women, influencing behavior independent of social or cultural factors.

According to study leader Justin Garcia, the gene's influence is mediated through the brain's reward system, where dopamine is responsible for pleasure and motivation. This system drives the desire to repeat pleasurable actions, whether food, new experiences, or sexual encounters.

The scientists emphasize that having this gene is not a death sentence. Genetic predisposition merely increases the likelihood of a certain behavior, but a person's ultimate choice is influenced by upbringing, culture, personal values, and social circumstances. The study opens new avenues for understanding the biological basis of human relationships and motivation.