The July-August 2025 issue of Vogue Philippines [IG] feeds our wanderlust desire, a trait not experienced by all humans in the same way.

As always, AOC is on the hunt for new discovery and we found a lollapalooza-size surprise. There is a probable link between wanderlust and the DRD4-7R gene variant. Who knew?

In the fashion story ‘Brighter Days’, models Sandra Drifter, Brett Prendergast and Bronson Garel explore the fields of California, styled by Soaree Choen in vintage, Gucci, Kaiane Designs, Marni, Ronny Kobo, The Row and more.

Clearly, the terrain at Elizabeth Lake in the Sierra Pelona Mountains — pictured here — helped to create images awash in wildflowers, draped in sun-washed silks, retro tailoring, and a warm haze of memory captured eloquently in images by Charles Lu [IG]. / Makeup by Monique Mazer; hair by Terri Walker

Humans and Wanderlust

Returning to this unexpected discovery of the DRD4-7R gene, dubbed the ‘wanderlust gene’, it’s a variant of DRD4, a receptor which controls our dopamine levels.

Researchers remind us that most people can get their dopamine fix from small pleasures like eating chocolate or camping by the lake. The DRD4-7R gene variant is linked to lower dopamine sensitivity, and it’s believed that one in five people has this mutant gene.

National Geographic calls it the “restless” gene and discusses several studies that tie the gene to human migration patterns, including early humans migrating out of Africa.

Dozens of human studies have found that DRD4-7R makes people more likely to take risks; explore new places, ideas, foods, relationships, drugs, or sexual opportunities; and generally embrace movement, change, and adventure.

Thanks Vogue Philippines for unintentionally giving our brains a big spin today. This discovery is an entirely different kind of superbloom. This is a BIG idea. ~ Anne