Wanderlust Gene Test
$149.00
Are you someone who enjoys adventure, traveling, and exploring new destinations? You might possess the “wanderlust” gene. Take a test to discover if thrill-seeking is encoded in your DNA.
- Detects the DRD4 gene version associated with “wanderlust”
- Individuals who inherit at least one allele of 7 or more repeats (7R+) are more inclined to frequently travel, take risks, explore new places, try new food, and engage in sexually adventurous behavior.
- Collection method: Buccal swabs
- Private and confidential online results
Description
The “wanderlust” gene is a specific genetic variation of the DRD4 gene, also known as the 7R+ version of the dopamine receptor. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or a chemical produced in the brain that is responsible for creating feelings of pleasure and reward. The dopamine receptor D4, encoded by the DRD4 gene, binds dopamine and transmits signals within the cells.
The “wanderlust” variant of the DRD4 gene binds dopamine less efficiently than the common 4R version, resulting in reduced levels of the dopamine “feel good” signal transmitted in the brain. Individuals with this variant require higher dopamine levels to achieve the same “feel good” effects and tend to increase dopamine levels through novelty-seeking behavior such as traveling, exploring, and engaging in sexual activities.
Learning more about your genetic makeup can provide a better understanding of your personality and help you plan your lifestyle in terms of career direction and project choices that match your unique DNA.
Description
The “wanderlust” gene is a specific genetic variation of the DRD4 gene, also known as the 7R+ version of the dopamine receptor. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or a chemical produced in the brain that is responsible for creating feelings of pleasure and reward. The dopamine receptor D4, encoded by the DRD4 gene, binds dopamine and transmits signals within the cells.
The “wanderlust” variant of the DRD4 gene binds dopamine less efficiently than the common 4R version, resulting in reduced levels of the dopamine “feel good” signal transmitted in the brain. Individuals with this variant require higher dopamine levels to achieve the same “feel good” effects and tend to increase dopamine levels through novelty-seeking behavior such as traveling, exploring, and engaging in sexual activities.
Learning more about your genetic makeup can provide a better understanding of your personality and help you plan your lifestyle in terms of career direction and project choices that match your unique DNA.
Our testing laboratory is AABB Accredited, ISO/IEC 17025 Certified and participates in the CAP proficiency testing program.
Technical Info
The DRD4 gene is located on chromosome 11, and we inherit two copies of this gene – one from each parent. This means we can inherit either two identical copies (e.g., both 4R) or two different copies (e.g., 4R and 7R).
DNA changes in the DRD4 gene typically occur in a 48 base pair repeat region, where the number of repeats can range from 2 to 11.
The “wanderlust” DNA test determines the length of the repeat region within DRD4 and can specify the number of repeats at each copy. Inheriting at least one copy of the 7R+ allele, which includes 7R, 8R, 9R, 10R, and 11R, is associated with an increased likelihood of traveling, exploring, and discovering new foods, places, and people.
