Research finds we share genes with our friends

Similar genetics between friends? Research confirms it.

In a previous article we addressed the question of whether we choose our romantic partners based on the differences we have with them or on their similarities.

Today, in addition, we will analyze recent research that compared the genetic similarity compared the genetic similarity between friends.

Genetic similarity between friends? Research suggests so

A recent study showed that people in the same circle of friendships have genetic matches that could be compared to a degree of kinship of fourth-degree cousins.

Research

The National Science Academy has highlighted, based on research from the Framingham Heart Study, that individuals choose friendships with a high degree of genetic overlap. The authors of the finding worked with a sample of 1,900 subjects and examined more than 1.5 million genetic variables and markers..

Genetic similarity equivalent to that of fourth-degree cousins

The study compared pairs of unrelated friends with pairs of subjects who were neither related nor knew each other beforehand. It was reported that pairs of friends share 1% of genes. According to James Fowler, co-author of the research and professor of genetics in medicine, "this percentage of genetic overlap is equivalent to that of fourth-degree cousins.".

In addition, the genetic markers we share with our friends are also the ones characterized by undergoing evolutions more frequently compared to the rest of the genes, according to the researchers. The study reveals that friendships play an influential role in our healthHealth is not only based on physiological issues, but is also influenced by the people around us, especially friends," says study co-author Nicholas Christakis, professor of biology, sociology and evolutionary medicine at Yale.

The key lies in 'metagenomics'.

The research also concluded that the people we choose as friends often have marked differences from us in their type of immune system, which can have a positive impact on both of us because it offers us complementary immune protection. complementary immune protection.. This study supports the scientific line that points out that human beings are metagenomic, that is, we are not only a combination of individual genes, but also a mixture of genes from the people who make up our circle of friends.

Bibliographic references:

• Original study: http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/pressrelease/friends_are_...