In The News This Week … July 24–30, 2004: Color and the Sexes

Women – did you ever wonder why so many men appear to lack color sense? Men – did you ever wonder why women make such a big deal over color?

Researchers may have the answer. According to a study entitled Signatures of Selection and Gene Conversion Associated with Human Color Vision Variation published in the July 13, 2004 electronic edition of the American Journal of Human Genetics, it's all in the genes – at least regarding seeing variations of the color red.

Researchers Brian C. Verrelli and Sarah A. Tishkoff found that a gene on the X chromosome, OPN1LW, which allows people to see the red spectrum, has many variations. Women, who have two X chromosomes and, therefore, two of the OPN1LW gene, are at an advantage, when perceiving red, over males, who only have one X chromosome.

While the ability to see variation in reds is not particularly useful now, except in the fashion industry, the authors suggest that it was useful in the early evolution of humans. Females once had the primary role in food gathering; thus, they needed to be able to do things like see berries amidst foliage and distinguish between edible and non-edible berries.

So women – the next time a guy appears with a tie that just doesn't cut it or a shirt that doesn't go with his pants, you'll know why. And men – the next time the woman in your life asks you which of two shades of red you prefer – whether in clothing or decorating – you'll know to tread carefully, or show her this article.

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