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By APD writer Alice
Gene Partner, a matchmaking service based on new DNA analysis in Japan, declared that it is possible to match two people based on their genetic compatibility. In other Asian countries, typically Singapore, the gene matching service is also appearing...
The gene matching service is thriving in Asia and the world as well. According to a report by analysis firm Market Research Future (MRF), the Asia-Pacific genetic testing industry was valued at US$1.32 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach US$2.48 billion by 2024.
Research has shown that DNA affects human relationships and that people subconsciously seek out partners with 'compatibility genes'.
The Gene Partner formula claims to measure the genetic compatibility between two individuals and makes an 'accurate prediction of the strength of their basis for a long-lasting and fulfilling romantic relationship'.
In terms of evolution, this means children of couples with a higher variety in their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genes will have better protection from a greater variety of diseases.
People who want to find suitable genetic partners will submit their saliva in tubes for testing, said Chieko Date, CEO of Gene Partner Japan. The greater the genetic distance between the two people’s HLA molecules, the more attractive they might find one another.
In addition to over 1,000 types of HLA genes, other genetic factors such as appearance, hobbies and interests, and compatibility in fertility are also considered, she said, adding since her company was established in 2015, 18 couples have been matched.
A.M from Kawasaki city of Japan is an example. The 37-year-old architect had tried many dating options, from singles parties to swiping right on Tinder, but no results were recorded. Finally, in 2017, she decided to hand her destiny over to science, and let a laboratory choose her ideal match.
She sent her sample of saliva swab to Gene Partner Japan. Two years after the DNA test, she had a happy wedding with her husband, a 34-year-old manager from Yokohama. And all for just 36,000 JPY (US$330).
Many DNA matchmakers use the same methods to test for compatibility. At Genemate, a Singapore-based DNA matchmaker, applicants pay US$280 and submit their saliva in tubes for testing. According to Roger Poon, a co-founder of the firm, their laboratory analyses an individual’s HLA genes and groups them into one of eight tribes, or categories, based on type. They then match clients with “soulmates” from other tribes.
For 19,800 yen (about US$182) per test and analysis, Gene Future, another Japanese matchmaking firm based in Tokyo and Kyoto offers similar HLA-based tests. The firm’s leader said they have conducted DNA tests for over 900 singles.
However, there are some genetic matchmaking events failing to produce sustainable results. According to a clinical associate professor of pediatrics and adolescence at the University of Hong Kong, it is too early to conclude that the technology can predetermine love matches.
As personality is affected by genetics, environment and the interaction of these things, such tests are not enough, he said.
In fact, some couples who got married after DNA tests have shown their incompatibility. A client of Gene Partner who has a five-year-old daughter felt there was something wrong in relationship with his wife. They were genetically incompatible, and therefore decided to divorce.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
