Similar Faces have Similar DNA

According to a recent study, genetic similarities exist among lookalikes who are not related by blood.

At first glance, our faces are what set us apart from one another. But, I’m sure you’ve come across Doppelgangers, people may have a striking resemblance in appearance and are not related. Researchers have found that these lookalikes actually have more in common than just physical similarities; in fact, they might even share genetic traits. The research based upon this observation was published in the academic journal Cell Reports¹.

By examining the photographs taken over the course of more than 20 years by artist and photographer François Brunelle of lookalikes all across the world, the researchers were able to pinpoint pairs of virtual doppelgangers. Then, the researchers ran them through facial recognition software so that computer algorithms could confirm the likenesses. The 32 pairings that were ultimately selected had demonstrated similarity in three recognition systems, with results that were comparable to identical twin results. The 64 participants' biological samples were then collected, and in-depth questionnaires regarding their habits and lifestyles were given to them afterward.