Our choice of mate is partly programmed at the genetic level
True bonds of love can be caused by both genes and consciousness. Maria da Graca Vicaro is a professor of immunology at the University of Parao (Brazil). Her research has shown that in mates we unconsciously choose an immune system that is different from our own.
Maria is convinced that in the process of evolution, people have learned to “sniff out” immune genes and partners that are different from themselves in order to increase the chances of survival in their offspring.
“It can be tempting for people to choose mates based on obvious similarities,” she says. “But our research clearly shows that the main reason for choosing mates is the genetic differences needed to successfully reproduce offspring that are resistant to a range of diseases.”
Maria Bikalo”s team studied a group of genes known as the “major histocompatibility complex” (MHC). The researchers analyzed 90 real-life couples and 152 fictional couples (randomly computer-edited).
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The most important issue in the life of a girl or woman is creating a happy family. Not only her future, but also her future practically depends on this.
“If MHC genes do not influence pair choice, we see similar results in both samples. However, with these genes, we found that actual spouses differ significantly from each other,” explains Maria. It is this group of genes that is believed to be responsible for immunity and fertility.”
The study also shows that humans are wired to find members of species with similar sets of unattractive MHC genes.
“We are probably still figuring out what role cultural aspects of our lives play in mate choice. Of course, we are not saying that a particular set of genes completely determines human behavior. However, we believe that this evolutionary mechanism of mate selection should not be overlooked. Our research shows that these mechanisms help ensure the emergence of offspring with strong immune systems,” concludes Maria.
