Jezebel: genes

Baby Blues

Maria — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:20:00 EST

Researchers in the UK are hoping to isolate a recessive gene that they believe is linked with postpartum psychosis, a rare and extreme form of postnatal depression. By identifying the gene, experts hope that they can help doctors identify women likely to develop postpartum psychosis and offer effective treatment. A separate study also found that a quarter of women who experience mild euphoria after childbirth can develop late-onset postnatal depression within two months. [Guardian]

A new study suggests that transsexualism...

Maria — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:20:00 EDT

A new study suggests that transsexualism and gender identity development may be ingrained in our genetic makeup. A DNA analysis of 112 male-to-female transsexuals found that most had a longer version of the androgen receptor genea genetic trait that is associated with "less efficient" testosterone signaling. Recently, studies have found a biological basis for transsexualism in some people, including a study that found male-to-female transsexuals have a more "female like" brain structure. [BBC]

Shorties But Goodies

Jessica — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 17:20:00 EST

Good news for the shorties out there! Scientists have discovered a gene, which is associated with short stature in women, that is also linked to living a long life. The gene, called IGF1R, has been nicknamed the "Methuselah mutation," by Scientific American and was studied in Ashkenazi Jews aged 95-108 at the Institute for Aging Research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. The Ashkenazi were the focus of the study because, according to Science Daily, they're more "genetically uniform than other groups, making it easier to spot gene differences that are present." This is especially excellent news for tiny, tiny Jew and Jezebel's personal sex guru Dr. Ruth, who is turning 80 this year. [Science Daily, Scientific American]