What you carry at this position in your DNA and what research says about it.
Weight and Metabolic Risk: 10/10 evidence, 19 publications.
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Sample genotype (not yours): A/A
Typical Weight and Higher HDL Cholesterol
A typical body mass index and healthier lipid profiles are characteristic of this genetic profile. It carries two copies of the protective allele, which helps lower the risk of metabolic issues.
What this genotype means: Typical body mass index; Higher HDL cholesterol levels; Lower systemic inflammation markers.
Sample genotype (not yours): A/G
Slightly Higher Weight and Metabolic Risk
A slight increase in body mass index and waist circumference is linked to this genetic profile. It may also slightly lower HDL cholesterol and increase inflammatory markers.
What this genotype means: Slightly elevated body mass index; Slightly lower HDL cholesterol; Slightly higher inflammatory markers.
Sample genotype (not yours): G/G
Higher Weight and Metabolic Risk
An increased body mass index, larger waist circumference, and lower HDL cholesterol are associated with this genetic profile. It represents two copies of the risk-associated G allele.
What this genotype means: Elevated body mass index; Lower HDL cholesterol levels; Increased risk of metabolic syndrome.
Gene function and biological role
Gene Function: The LINGO2 gene encodes a protein that is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system [1]. It plays a key role in neuronal development and the regulation of energy balance [1]. Studies suggest that LINGO2 is involved in the complex neural circuitry that controls appetite and body weight [1]. Genetic variations in this gene have been consistently linked to differences in body mass index and metabolic traits across diverse populations [2].
Variant Impact: Located within an intron of the LINGO2 gene, rs10968576 is a common single nucleotide change. Because it is located in a non-coding region, it does not directly alter the amino acid sequence of the protein but may influence how the gene is expressed. Large-scale genetic studies have identified this specific variant as a key marker for body mass index and adiposity [3]. It has also been linked to other metabolic and behavioral traits, including cholesterol levels and smoking behavior.
Key Insight: This variant is located in a gene active in the brain, suggesting that its influence on body weight may be driven by appetite regulation rather than metabolic rate alone.
Location: LINGO2. Chromosome 9 · 9p21.1 · 28.4 Mb
Estimated prevalence by population
Global 55.9%; European 46.8%; African 70.2%; East Asian 67.7%; South Asian 66.2%; Americas 60.1%; Ashkenazi 56.2%; Finnish 39.0%; Middle Eastern 73.5%; Amish 71.8%.
Estimated AA genotype frequency.
Global 37.0%; European 43.2%; African 27.2%; East Asian 29.2%; South Asian 30.3%; Americas 34.9%; Ashkenazi 37.5%; Finnish 46.9%; Middle Eastern 24.5%; Amish 25.8%.
Estimated AG genotype frequency.
Global 7.1%; European 10.0%; African 2.6%; East Asian 3.1%; South Asian 3.5%; Americas 5.1%; Ashkenazi 6.3%; Finnish 14.1%; Middle Eastern 2.0%; Amish 2.3%.
Estimated GG genotype frequency.
Showing effects for A/A genotype
Cardiovascular & Metabolic
Obesity & Body Composition
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 20935630. Typical BMI.
Waist Circumference. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 25673412. Typical Waist Size.
Lipids & Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 29083408. Higher HDL.
Neurology & Mental Health
Mood Disorders
Bipolar Disorder. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 31754094. Typical Risk.
Addiction & Reward
Smoking Behavior. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 28443625. Typical Behavior.
Immunity & Inflammation
Inflammatory & Circulating Protein Markers
C-Reactive Protein. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36376304. Lower CRP Levels.
Showing effects for A/G genotype
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 20935630. Slightly Higher BMI.
Waist Circumference. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 25673412. Slightly Larger Waist.
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 29083408. Slightly Lower HDL.
Bipolar Disorder. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 31754094. Slightly Higher Risk.
Smoking Behavior. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 28443625. Slightly Increased.
C-Reactive Protein. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36376304. Slightly Higher CRP.
Showing effects for G/G genotype
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 20935630. Higher BMI.
Waist Circumference. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 25673412. Larger Waist.
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 29083408. Lower HDL.
Bipolar Disorder. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 31754094. Higher Risk.
Smoking Behavior. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 28443625. Increased Likelihood.
C-Reactive Protein. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36376304. Higher CRP Levels.
What this genotype means for the people who carry it
Sample genotype: AA (Homozygous)
The presence of two A alleles represents the most common genetic profile globally. Large-scale genome-wide association studies have shown that individuals with this profile tend to have a lower body mass index compared to those carrying the G allele [1]. Additionally, this profile is linked to higher levels of HDL cholesterol, often referred to as good cholesterol, which supports cardiovascular health [2]. Research also indicates a lower likelihood of elevated C-reactive protein, a marker of systemic inflammation [3]. This genetic baseline is associated with a lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome or obesity-related complications [4]. Some studies suggest a lower risk of behavioral factors like smoking, which can further compound metabolic risks [5]. Overall, this genetic makeup provides a highly favorable baseline for weight management and metabolic wellness. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle will continue to support these natural genetic advantages.
Typical body mass index; Higher HDL cholesterol levels; Lower systemic inflammation markers.
Sample genotype: AG (Heterozygous)
A single copy of the G allele is associated with a modest increase in genetic predisposition to higher body weight and body mass index [1]. This variant is thought to influence metabolic pathways, potentially leading to a slightly larger waist circumference and altered fat distribution [2]. Individuals with this profile may also experience slightly lower levels of protective HDL cholesterol [3]. Furthermore, studies have noted a minor increase in C-reactive protein, suggesting a tendency toward higher baseline inflammation [4]. There is also a slightly higher statistical risk of developing metabolic syndrome over time [5]. Some research suggests a minor association with behavioral traits such as smoking, which can interact with metabolic health [6]. While these genetic influences are subtle, they highlight the importance of proactive wellness strategies. Regular physical activity and a nutrient-dense diet are highly effective ways to counteract these minor genetic predispositions.
Slightly elevated body mass index; Slightly lower HDL cholesterol; Slightly higher inflammatory markers.
Sample genotype: GG (Homozygous)
Double copies of the G allele are linked to the highest genetic predisposition to elevated body mass index and obesity within this locus [1]. This genetic profile is associated with a larger waist circumference and an increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Research has also connected this genotype to lower levels of cardioprotective HDL cholesterol and higher levels of C-reactive protein, which is a key marker of inflammation. Some studies have even observed a higher prevalence of bipolar disorder and certain behavioral tendencies, such as smoking, in individuals with this profile. The underlying mechanism may involve altered LINGO2 expression in brain regions that regulate appetite and energy expenditure [2]. This combination of factors can make weight management slightly more challenging compared to other genotypes. However, genetic predisposition is not destiny, and these risks can be actively managed. Implementing structured dietary habits and consistent exercise routines remains highly effective in maintaining metabolic health.
Elevated body mass index; Lower HDL cholesterol levels; Increased risk of metabolic syndrome.
Variants with shared genetic architecture
rs12446632 · GPRC5B Gene · Chr 16 · Body Weight and BMI
rs17024393 · GNAT2 Gene · Chr 1 · Obesity and Weight Risk
rs17405819 · HNF4G Gene · Chr 8 · Body Mass Index Risk
Association of the LINGO2-related SNP rs10968576 with body mass in a cohort of elderly Swedes.
Association analyses of 249,796 individuals reveal 18 new loci associated with body mass index.
Genetic studies of body mass index yield new insights for obesity biology.
Exome-wide association study of plasma lipids in >300,000 individuals.
Pleiotropic genetic architecture and novel loci for C-reactive protein levels.
New genetic loci link adipose and insulin biology to body fat distribution.
Content updated August 2026.
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