The evolution of mate choice

Abstract

Sexual reproduction is still an evolutionary puzzle. A female throws away half of her genes (during meiosis), and fills up what she lost with genes from a male. Sexual reproduction is only successful if the offspring with the new mixture of genes should be more than twice as fit as if she had made just a copy of herself. This increase in quality could be achieved by selectively “smelling out” suitable immuno (MHC) genes in potential partners which in combination with the female's genes offer optimal resistance against quickly changing infectious diseases. Mice, fish and humans exert this kind of mate choice. Humans select a perfume that amplifies their personal Immunogenetic odour signal.