According to new research, DNA may play a part in how we experience emotions – primarily happiness.
Researchers from Amsterdam analyzed nearly 300,000 people to determine the role that genetics plays in happiness and well being. 181 scientists from 145 research institutes also contributed to the massive international study, the largest ever conducted on this topic. The scientists were able to identify three genetic variants associated with happiness, two associated with depression, and 11 that affect how people experience neuroticism. The “happiness genes” primarily influence the central nervous system, the adrenal glands, and the pancreatic system.
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The implications of this study are huge. According to Meike Bartels, one of the principal scientists:
This study is both a milestone and a new beginning. A milestone because we are now certain that there is a genetic aspect to happiness and a new beginning because the three variants that we know are involved account for only a small fraction of the differences between human beings. We expect that many variants will play a part.
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This study is fascinating, and we look forward to finding out more its practical implications.
Curated article from:
Science Daily
