Promiscuity Gene DRD4 Test
Fee Schedule for Year 2019
| Test Type | Testing Time | Fee |
| Promiscuity Gene DRD4 Test | 2 to 4 weeks | $2920Order Kit |
All orders received before 2pm are shipped out the same business day. All orders received after 2pm or on weekends or holidays are shipped out the following business day. 24/7 online status check and account management available for all tests.
Step-by-Step
Step 2 - Collect DNA Sample
The DNA Kit contains all of the materials and instructions you need to collect the DNA sample quickly and discreetly from the privacy of your own home. The sample is collected by rubbing swabs gently inside the mouth against the cheek. The collection is fast, simple and painless and takes only a few seconds to do. After the sample is collected, simply send the samples back to the laboratory for testing using the return package provided in the kit.
Step 3 - Receive Results
Once the laboratory receives your sample, testing begins immediately and is completed within 3 to 5 business days. You can track the status of your test online 24/7. As soon as testing is complete, the final results report is released to you immediately. You can choose to receive your results by mail, email, or both.What is the promiscuity gene?
The "promiscuity gene" is a genetic variant of the DRD4 gene, which encodes the dopamine receptor D4. DRD4 variation can occur in a repeat region that controls the structure of the dopamine receptor.
The number of repeats in a 48-bp region varies between people, ranging from 2 to 11 repeats. People with at least one version (allele) of 7 or more repeats (7R+) are more likely to be sexually promiscuous. Hence the 7R+ allele is known as the "promiscuity gene."
What is the function of the dopamine receptor D4?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or a chemical made in the brain that gives us feelings of reward and pleasure. The dopamine receptor D4 (encoded by the DRD4 gene) binds dopamine and transmits the signal into the cells.
The 7R+ versions of the DRD4 gene results in a receptor that binds dopamine less efficiently, compared to the common 4-repeat (4R) version, therefore transmitting reduced levels of signals in the brain. This means people with the longer versions of DRD4 (7R+) require higher levels of dopamine to achieve the same "good feeling" affects produced by the hormone.
The 7R+ versions are also associated with increased promiscuity and intriguingly sexual activity can influence dopamine levels.
How is the promiscuity gene inherited?
The DRD4 gene is located on chromosome 11. We inherit two copies of the DRD4 gene - one from each parent.
It is possibile to inherit two identical copies (e.g. both 4R) or two different copies (e.g. 4R and 7R) of the gene. Inheriting a "promiscuity" variant (7R+), is associated with increased promiscuity and an increased number of extra-pair partners.
How common are the DRD4 alleles?
Approximately 65% of the population carry the most common 4R version of the DRD4 gene. The 7R form is the next most common (20%), followed by the 2R allele (9%).
The other alleles are less common, especially the very rare alleles that have eight or more repeats (less than 1%). The allele frequency also varies significantly between populations. For example, the "promiscuous" 7R allele is rare in East and South Asia populations (only 1.9%) but common in the Americas (48.3%).
Other conditions also associated with the DRD4 gene
Genetic changes in DRD4 are also associated with:
- Schizophrenia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disease
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Tourette syndrome
- Novelty seeking behavior
- Responsiveness to anti-psychotic medication
- Eating disorders
DNA testing for the promiscuity gene
A simple DNA test can determine which alleles of DRD4 were inherited. The different alleles are due to variation in the number of repeats of a 48-bp segment.
This test determines the length of the repeat region within the DRD4 gene and specifies the number of repeats for each DRD4 allele. It will establish whether or not an individual has a "promiscuity" variant (7R+) associated with an increased likelihood of promiscuous behavior.
People who inherit at least one copy of the 7R+ allele (includes 7R, 8R, 9R, 10R and 11R) are twice as likely to be promiscuous, compared to individuals with 7R- alleles (less than 7 repeats).