One of the variants of the gene encoding the dopamine receptor determines marital infidelity, American scientists have found. Researchers from Binghamton State University in the state of New York conducted a study among 181 young volunteers. Each of the participants answers questions about their sex life and relationship with their partner. A DNA sample was also taken from the participants for analysis. 77 of the study participants reported that they had cheated at least once. When analyzing the DNA material of the volunteers, the scientists focused on the DRD4 gene, encoding the dopamine receptor D4. Previous research has shown that different variants of this gene influence people’s risk-taking behavior, enjoyment of food, power, sensation in certain types of trials, and more. The results of the analysis showed that people with 7R+ of the D4 dopamine receptor are more likely than others to cheat on their partners. 50% of the carriers of this genetic variant report having a parallel relationship or unplanned cheating on their permanent partner. Among the volunteers who are not carriers of the gene variation, only 20% are prone to “runs”. The data obtained did not depend on the gender of the volunteers. Although the study mainly involved young people, scientists are confident that the results are valid for all ages. According to the leader of the study, Justin Garcia, the type of dopamine receptors affects the speed and strength of the dopamine response that will take place. It is responsible for getting pleasure from various actions and the desire to perform them. In addition, this so-called The pleasure system plays a central role in the formation of addiction to drugs such as heroin and cocaine.