Scientists examine immune system, emotional processing

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -

Your soul mate may be just a spit cup away!

Instant Chemistry is a new test that helps match singles, and assess couples' likelihood of staying together for the long haul, by analyzing the DNA from your saliva.

Here's how it works for couples who want to put their romance to the test: You and your partner order the kit, spit into your respective tubes and mail them in. There's also an online personality test to take. Then, just sit back and wait for your compatibility score based on physical, emotional and psychological factors.

Back in the lab, Instant Chemistry's team of scientists looks at genes associated with your immune system and emotional processing. It's all based on recent studies that examine the correlation between partners' immune systems and their sexual satisfaction, level of attraction, fidelity, fertility and children's health.

Instant Chemistry's scores are based on the idea that the less similar a couple's immune systems, the better their relationship may fare. The test also considers research on the serotonin transporter gene, which looks at the relationship between emotional behavior and changes in marital satisfaction over time.

There are two versions of this gene. The long version may help you maintain a more level head in emotional situations, while the short version means you're more likely to overreact. Research shows that when both partners have the short version, couple's are more likely to experience a decrease in relationship satisfaction over time.

"It's kind of like science fiction almost," said Jonathan Kirshenbaum, 33, who took the test with his then-girlfriend, now-fiance, Danielle Tennenhouse, 30.

"People can cheat on personality tests. You can't cheat on a genetic test," said Kirshenbaum. He and his wife-to-be said their high score, in the 90 percent region, helped reinforce what they already knew about their then year-long relationship. Those who don't score as high receive relationship advice from clinical psychologists on the Instant Chemistry advisory board.

Since launching in July 2014, Instant Chemistry has sold 300 DNA kits. Fifty couples have taken the test, and most have received compatibility scores between 60 percent and 80 percent.

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Scientists examine immune system, emotional processing