New evidence suggests so-called 'gay gene' could exist

A new scientific study has found fresh evidence suggesting a so-called “gay gene” could exist.

Twenty years ago, a study by American scientist Dean Hamer claimed to have discovered a so-called “gay gene” – but his research was criticised vocally by several right-wing US politicians and certain members of the religious community.

Now, following new research, scientists at the Human Genome Project have found evidence pointing to the existence of not one, but two or more so-called “gay genes”, reports The Washington Post.

“Sexual orientation has nothing to do with choice,” said the scientist who conducted the research, Michael Bailey of Northwestern University in Chicago. “Our findings suggest there may be genes at play, and we found evidence for two sets that affect whether a man is gay or straight.”

The study used as its subjects 409 gay brothers and their heterosexual family members, and Bailey’s findings supported Hamer’s contention that a gene on the X chromosome may have an impact on male sexual orientation. Futhermore, the new research suggested the presence of several other genes on the X chromosome that could potentially affect male sexual orientation, too.

However, Bailey also said of his study: “It is not completely determinative. There are certainly other environmental factors involved.”

The scientist added: “Although this could one day lead to a prenatal test for male sexual orientation, it would not be very accurate, as there are other factors that can influence the outcome.”

New evidence suggests so-called ‘gay gene’ could exist

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