Genes and Sex

You know how Billy Crystal said in 'When Harry Met Sally' that men and women can't be friends because the sex thing always gets in the way"?

It turns out that the differences between men and women at a genetic level go way, way, way back in our genetic heritage.

One of the more interesting things being researched is how and why genetic diseases are carried onwards. Often the disease seems to offer some protection or other benefit outside of the damage it brings (see: how sickle cell anemia offers protection against Malaria).

Schizophrenia may well turn out to be an example. But what possible reproductive benefit could Schizophrenia bring? It may be as simple as sexiness.

And speaking of sexy, turns out that the male brain really does respond differently to a pretty face.

Tell me something I didn't know!