Human Leukocyte Antigen’ influence on sexual selection and human pair bonding

Jansma, Silke A.J. (2021) Human Leukocyte Antigen’ influence on sexual selection and human pair bonding. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

The Human Leukocyte Antigen region contains immunological genes and has been hypothesized to play a role in sexual selection and pair bonding. Papers on how one's HLA genes affect odour preference and attraction were reviewed, with results showing preference towards dissimilar and diverse HLA profiles respectively. Psychological surveys in couples showed how similar HLA alleles between partners affect women’s attraction and sexual attraction negatively, and increased the likelihood to be attracted to other men and even cheat. Lastly, the chance of fertilization and success of pregnancies based on HLA genes was analyzed. Interaction between follicular fluid and sperm appeared to be dependent on HLA, with HLA dissimilarity increasing the chance of fertilization. Furthermore, the probability of loss of pregnancy depends on certain HLA allele (combinations). All in all, pre- and-post sexual selection as well as pair bonding are influenced via the HLA.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Billeter, J.C.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	29 Jul 2021 07:41
Last Modified:	13 Aug 2021 07:56
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/25255

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