Biologists discover gene that may determine 'good' and 'bad' dads | Popular Science

Researchers at Princeton University have discovered a gene, Agouti, that may influence paternal behavior in mammals. The study, published in the journal Nature, found that male striped mice with lower levels of Agouti were more nurturing towards their offspring, while higher levels were associated with hostile behavior. The gene's expression is influenced by social conditions, such as population density, and can be altered by changing living conditions. The findings suggest that Agouti may play a role in balancing self-preservation with investment in offspring, but the researchers caution against oversimplifying parenting behaviors as solely determined by genetics.