# Genetic research on Big Five personality traits > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/genetic-research-on-big-five-personality-traits > Updated: 2026-09-07T05:29:10.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 2. An international research consortium, including the Revived Genomics of Personality Consortium, has published a large-scale study in the journal Nature regarding the genetic basis of the ‘Big Five’ personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. By analyzing data from over one million participants across 46 global cohorts, researchers identified approximately 1,200 to 1,260 genetic variants associated with these traits. The findings indicate that while personality has a biological foundation, there is no single ‘personality gene.’ Instead, thousands of tiny variations contribute to these traits, with genetics accounting for an estimated 5% to 13% of personality differences. The study suggests these genetic markers are linked to various life outcomes, such as education, career, income, health, and longevity. Specific correlations were noted, such as variants linked to openness being associated with urban living and those linked to neuroticism being connected to increased risks for anxiety and depression. Researchers emphasized that environmental factors, upbringing, and personal experiences remain major drivers of personality, noting that DNA does not determine destiny. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-07: Genetic study identifies 1,200 variants linked to personality traits A massive study involving one million people has identified over 1,200 genetic variants linked to the Big Five personality traits, accounting for roughly 13% of personality differences. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/genetic-study-identifies-1200-variants-linked-to-personality-traits-1 ### 2026-09-04: Researchers identify 1,260 genetic variants linked to personality traits A massive international study has identified 1,260 genetic variants linked to the Big Five personality traits, finding that while DNA influences character, environment remains a major factor. 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/researchers-identify-1260-genetic-variants-linked-to-personality-traits-1 --- Cite as: Genetic research on Big Five personality traits. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/genetic-research-on-big-five-personality-traits