Professor says sperm recipients should be warned of "gay gene"

A New Zealand university professor has angered many of the country's gay rights activists by suggesting that recipients of the sperm of gay donors should be told that a "gay gene" could be passed on to the child, reports the news Web site Stuff. Some scientists agree that there is evidence of a genetic component to sexual orientation, but most argue the link is complex and ill-defined.

After a complaint to the Human Rights Commission, New Zealand's biggest fertility service, Fertility Associates, recently decided to accept sperm from gay men, ending a ban based on perceived HIV risk. Responding to the move, Canterbury University associate professor of genetics Frank Sin called for potential recipients of sperm from gay donors to be told that their children could inherit "the gay gene."

Sin told The Dominion Post that it is "not daydreaming" to suggest that sexual orientation could be inherited. Animal models have clearly shown the existence of a gene that controls sexual behavior, he said. Though there is nothing so conclusive in human studies, there is strong evidence—particularly from studies on twins—of a significant genetic component. Though he has nothing against homosexuality, Sin said, he feels people have the right to know the trait could be passed on.

Gay Association of Professionals spokesman Allan-John Marsh told Stuff that Sin's suggestion is insulting and pathetic. Though the association agrees that being gay is something innate—rather than a choice—there is no proof of a gay gene. (Advocate.com)

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