Editorial

Time to take dating to the molecular level?

Friday, March 9, 2018

Humans have tried all types of means of selecting mates, from marriages arranged for social or political reasons, to romantic fantasies cultivated by Hollywood to internet couplings created by computerized compatibility algorithms.

With the growth of DNA analysis for genealogical, medical and legal investigation, it was probably only a matter of time before someone attempted to combine it with matchmaking.

A pair of 20-somethings, Brittany Barreto, PhD, and Asma Mirza founded the Pheramor app a couple of years on the idea that 11 genes that encode proteins for your immune system can actually predict attraction.

“So, the more diverse your immune systems are, the more likely you are to be attracted to each other,” said Barreto.

She claims the system is able to predict love at first sight, and compatibility by analyzing those pheromones and the immune system.

Download the app, take a DNA sample from the inside of your cheek, send it in and Pheramor will match you to other singles in your area.

You’re not completely at the mercy of your DNA, however, since you’re able to add information such as gender, partner preferences and interests.

So what if you’re already married; should you take the test to see how compatible you are with your spouse?

We suggest you leave that one alone ...

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