Biology plays an undeniable role in our ability to love and form social bonds, says Larry Young. “A lot of people say, ‘Doesn’t that take away a lot of the magic?’ But, to me, it’s even more beautiful to think that love is being produced through neurotransmission.” (Courtesy: Emory University)

EMORY (US)—Neuroscientist Larry Young has been studying brain chemicals linked to the ability to form lasting bonds of affection. “A single molecule can have a profound effect on relationships,” he says.

The work by the Emory University researcher involves prairie voles, highly social animals that tend to form life-long bonds with their mates.

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“This is the first study to suggest that a tendency to be more empathetic and stress reactive than others may be influenced by a single gene,” notes study coauthor Sarina Rodrigues. Informally known as the “cuddle” or “love” hormone, oxytocin is secreted into the bloodstream and the brain, where it promotes social interaction, bonding and romantic love, among other functions.

UC BERKELEY (US)—Researchers have found compelling evidence that people who are more empathetic possess a particular variation of the oxytocin receptor gene.

Published in the journal Proceedings in the National Academy of Sciences, the findings by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, support other research showing that oxytocin plays a major role in countering stress. Previous studies have also linked this genetic variation with autism and parenting styles, says study coauthor Sarina Rodrigues, assistant professor of psychology at Oregon State University.

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