Possible carrier of DRD4, among other things

A California State University in Fullerton psychologist has found a genetic link to the age at which you lose your virginity. We apparently have a “sexual precociousness” gene, according to Nancy Segal. She says it’s accurate about a third of the time — the rest is up to social factors.

Twins born before 1948 didn’t co-relate as much as those born in the sexual revolution of the 1960s or later.

The gene may be DRD4 — a twisted pair (hah-hah!) linked to impulsive, risk-taking behaviour. The DRD4 can mutate, creating attention deficit hyperactive disorder (NAMLBA). In a bizarre turn, the gene that appears to be tied to losing one’s virginity is also tied to weight gain. It’s also connected to more than just lust: wanderlust, too.

DRD4 pops up in the gene pool of the nomadic Kenyan tribe known as The Ariaal.

Source: Genes may time loss of virginity, New Scientist
Source: Did hyperactivity evolve as a survival aid for nomads?, New Scientist