Sex may be the elixir that triggers all kinds of positive responses in females, according to a recent study which investigated the reaction to sex in fruit flies.

Scientists at the University of East Anglia believe this may extend in principle to humans too.

Studying the reaction of theDrosophila melanogaster – commonly known as the fruit fly – to sex, the scientists found that one protein molecule found in semen has a rather noticeable effect on the female of the species.  

Known by the researchers as the “sex peptide”, this molecule altered a female fruit fly’s egg development and even immunity.

“It showed that the semen protein is a ‘master regulator’ - which ultimately means that males effectively have a direct and global influence on the behaviour and reproductive system of the female.

“Such effects may well occur across many species,” explained lead researcher, Professor Tracey Chapman.