Scientists say they have disproved a popular notion dating from the 1990s that a single “gay gene” is responsible for determining a person’s sexual orientation.
Teams from Europe and the US performed a genetic analysis of almost half a million people to conclude that a multitude of genes play some role, but other factors such as upbringing and environment are more important.
Sexual rights campaigners have welcomed the research, published in the influential journal Science, saying it is further evidence that being gay or lesbian is a natural part of life.