Why was Adolf Hitler the way he was? As simple as the question sounds, even more than 80 years after the Nazi dictator’s death, an answer remains elusive – and every new attempt at explanation causes a stir.

A British documentary aims to provide clarity with an analysis of Hitler’s DNA. Although there are doubts about the method and conclusions, the fascination seems to be great once again.

The Times newspaper reported in its coverage of the documentary Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator that he had a hidden genetic sexual disorder.

The film also addresses rumours that Hitler had secret Jewish ancestry.

It is scheduled be broadcast on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom on Saturday.

Channel 4 is promoting the documentary with the strapline: “For the first time ever, experts identify Hitler’s DNA. What do his genes reveal about Hitler’s heritage and origins, his neurology and drives?”

The documentary’s research team reports it has found indications of Kallmann syndrome in Hitler’s genetic material, according to British media reports from Wednesday.

In people with this syndrome, puberty is absent or does not fully occur. For example, in boys, only a small amount of body hair develops, and the voice may not deepen.

Other sexual characteristics may not develop as they typically do in adults. The Guardian newspaper reported that up to 10 per cent of people with Kallmann syndrome also have a “micropenis”.

However, conclusions about personality are hardly possible.

“Some of the insights are scientifically sound and will contribute to historical debate,” The Guardian wrote.

However, conclusions about Hitler’s peculiarities are scientifically problematic.

According to the information, the DNA analysis is based on a blood sample from a sofa that US troops found in the Führer’s bunker after Hitler’s death on April 30, 1945, and Germany’s defeat in World War II.

Hitler is believed to have shot himself on this sofa. The proof that it is the dictator’s blood was reportedly provided in 2008 through a comparison with the DNA of a man with common paternal ancestors.

–DPA