Study Suggests Genetic Link for Male Homosexuality
Associated Press November 17, 2014
Julio Cabrera, pictured here, and his brother Mauricio, of Fort Worth,
Texas, are among almost 800 gay brothers nationwide who donated blood or
saliva to help scientists search for genetic clues about the origins of
homosexuality. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green, File)
CHICAGO (AP) A large study of gay brothers adds to evidence that genes
influence mens chances of being homosexual, but the results arent strong
enough to prove it.
Some scientists believe several genes might affect sexual orientation.
Researchers who led the new study of nearly 800 gay brothers say their
results bolster previous evidence pointing to genes on the X chromosome.
They also found evidence of influence from a gene or genes on a different
chromosome. But the study doesnt identify which of hundreds of genes
located in either place might be involved.
Smaller studies seeking genetic links to homosexuality have had mixed
results.
Related: College Crew Team Disrobes to Fight Homophobia and Bullying
The new evidence is not proof but its a pretty good indication that genes
on the two chromosomes have some influence over sexual orientation, said Dr.
Alan Sanders, the lead author. He studies behavioral genetics at NorthShore
University HealthSystem Research Institute in Evanston, Illinois.
Experts not involved in the study were more skeptical.
Neil Risch, a genetics expert at the University of California, San
Francisco, said the data are statistically too weak to demonstrate any
genetic link. Risch was involved in a smaller study that found no link
between male homosexuality and chromosome X.
Dr. Robert Green, a medical geneticist at Harvard Medical School, called the
new study intriguing but not in any way conclusive.
The work was published Monday by the journal Psychological Medicine. The
National Institutes of Health paid for the research.
The researchers say they found potential links to male homosexuality in a
portion of chromosome X and on chromosome 8, based on an analysis of genetic
material in blood or saliva samples from participants.
Chromosome X is one of two human sex chromosomes; the other is chromosome Y,
present only in men.
The study authors note that animal research suggests a gene located in one
region of chromosome X may contribute to some sexual behavior; its one of
the same regions cited in the new study.
Specific causes of homosexuality are unknown. Some scientists think social,
cultural, family and biological factors are involved, while some religious
groups consider it an immoral choice.
Study participant Dr. Chad Zawitz, a Chicago physician, called the research
a giant step forward toward answering scientific questions about
homosexuality and helping reduce the stigma gays often face.
Being gay is sort of like having certain eye color or skin color its
just who you are, Zawitz said. Most heterosexuals I know didnt choose to
be heterosexual. Its puzzling to me why people dont understand.
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