Can genetic compatibility be detected by smell?
Your genetics impact how you smell and perceive odors, and this extends to romantic and sexual attraction. Body odor varies widely among individuals, with some remaining scent-free during intense physical activity, while others struggle to mask unpleasant odors. But can genetics actually help determine genetic compatibility through smell? Let's delve into the intriguing relationship between genetics, body odor, and finding a compatible partner.
Do your genetics affect your smell and sense of smell?
Genetics wields a potent influence over both body odor and scent perception. Studies primarily concentrate on armpit odor, revealing that genetic factors determine the presence of compounds in sweat that can attract bacteria, giving rise to body odor. Furthermore, your genetic makeup can shape your interpretation of different scents, including your perception of body fragrance.
What does the study say?
A 2007 study conducted by Duke University Medical Center and Rockefeller University investigated how the OR7D4 gene, responsible for human odor receptors, responds to specific steroids found in sweat, like androstenone and androstadienone. The study revealed that people with different versions of the gene had varying responses to these compounds, affecting their perception of smell.
Can you detect genetic compatibility by smell?
By understanding how genetics influence body odor, we can now explore the idea of using scent to determine genetic compatibility. While individuals may not consciously seek out partners based on their scent, body odor does play a subliminal role in partner selection. It is said that people attract partners through scents that make them feel comfortable, and these individuals may have genetic compatibility.
What do theories say?
Evolutionary theories suggest that this could be an adaptation to avoid inbreeding or ensure offspring with strong immune systems. A 2003 study in Behavioral Ecology supported the concept of "scent dissimilarity," indicating that women tend to prefer the scent of men with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotypes dissimilar to their own. MHC plays a crucial role in the immune system.
Hypothesis around scent compatibility
The "scent dissimilarity" theory aligns with previous research that found women, both on and off contraceptives, show a preference for men with dissimilar MHC genotypes. However, it's essential to note that scent-based preferences can vary during a woman's menstrual cycle. Research indicates that during peak fertility (ovulation), women have heightened olfactory sensitivity, making them more responsive to androstenone, a compound found in body odor.
Unknown facts
A 2012 study examined men's ability to detect pleasant body scents from women during low- and high-fertility days. The results showed that men overwhelmingly found high-fertility samples more attractive and could easily distinguish them from low-fertility samples. This suggests that men can unconsciously identify when ovulation is occurring through body odor, potentially influencing attractiveness and sexual approach behavior.
