New Genetic Research Predicts Sexual Orientation in Men

In a recent study, researchers used an algorithm that can identify patterns of DNA methylation across nine regions of the human genome, potentially related to sexual orientation. Gene expression is controlled by a molecular modification to DNA called DNA methylation and can be triggered by environmental factors including stress, diet, exercise, and exposure to chemicals.

The main group of people that were studied for this research were identical twins because although identical male twins posses the same genetic sequence, previous research found obnly 20% are both homosexual. This caused the researchers to hypothesize that sexual orientation can be influenced by altering DNA. The study consisted of 37 pairs of identical male twins, one homosexual one heterosexual, and another 10 pairs of identical twins that were both homosexual. After studying the algorithm the team named "FuzzyForest," in which they studied 400,000 data points. "From this, the researchers identified DNA methylation patterns in nine small areas of the human genome that could predict whether each twin was heterosexual or homosexual with up to 70% accuracy." These researchers plan on continuing with their findings to increase accuracy of the algorithm and discover new aspects of DNA methylation.


This research is important because there has always been much debate over whether or not homosexuality is a matter of nature or nuture. Are you born homosexual or do your surroundings influence your sexual orientation? This study is picking apart the human genome to be able to detect homosexuality and even in the beginning stages, with such great accuracy. As our world is changing, we learn more and more about homosexuality, but we fail to look at it from a molecular standpoint. I look forward to seeing where this research will lead in the future.