What you carry at this position in your DNA and what research says about it.
Omega-3 Metabolism: 8/10 evidence, 11 publications.
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Sample genotype (not yours): A/A
Efficient Omega-3 Synthesis and Favorable Lipids
Highly active desaturase enzymes support optimal conversion of plant-based fats into active omega-3s. This genotype is linked to higher HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides.
What this genotype means: Highly efficient omega-3 synthesis; Favorable triglyceride levels; Higher HDL cholesterol.
Sample genotype (not yours): A/G
Typical Omega-3 Synthesis and Lipid Profile
Moderate desaturase enzyme activity provides a balanced rate of fatty acid conversion. Lipid levels and omega-3 synthesis are generally within the typical range.
What this genotype means: Moderate omega-3 synthesis; Typical triglyceride levels; Average HDL cholesterol.
Sample genotype (not yours): G/G
Reduced Omega-3 Synthesis and Higher Triglycerides
Lower desaturase enzyme activity limits the conversion of plant-based fats into active omega-3s. This genotype is associated with higher triglycerides and lower HDL.
What this genotype means: Less efficient omega-3 synthesis; Elevated triglyceride levels; Lower HDL cholesterol.
Gene function and biological role
Gene Function: The FADS2 gene encodes delta-6 desaturase, a key rate-limiting enzyme responsible for converting short-chain plant-based fatty acids into long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids [1]. This enzyme plays a critical role in synthesizing essential lipids like arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid [2]. These fatty acids are vital components of cell membranes, particularly in the brain, and serve as precursors for signaling molecules that regulate inflammation and cardiovascular health [2]. Variations in this gene can significantly alter how efficiently the body processes dietary fats [1].
Variant Impact: The rs2072114 variant is an intron variant located within the FADS2 gene that influences its expression and enzyme activity [1]. The major A allele is associated with highly efficient desaturase activity, leading to higher circulating levels of long-chain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids [2]. Conversely, the minor G allele is linked to reduced enzyme efficiency, resulting in lower levels of these essential fats [2]. This genetic difference affects blood lipid profiles, including triglycerides and cholesterol levels, making dietary intake of preformed omega-3s particularly important for certain genotypes [1].
Key Insight: Carrying the G allele reduces your body's ability to convert plant-based fats into active omega-3s, making direct dietary sources like fish oil much more important.
Location: FADS2. Chromosome 11 · 11q12.2 · 61.8 Mb
Estimated prevalence by population
Global 71.1%; European 75.6%; African 75.6%; East Asian 34.7%; South Asian 85.3%; Americas 58.0%; Ashkenazi 77.3%; Finnish 51.0%; Middle Eastern 74.5%; Amish 93.3%.
Estimated AA genotype frequency.
Global 25.9%; European 22.7%; African 22.7%; East Asian 48.4%; South Asian 14.1%; Americas 36.3%; Ashkenazi 21.3%; Finnish 40.8%; Middle Eastern 23.6%; Amish 6.6%.
Estimated AG genotype frequency.
Global 3.0%; European 1.7%; African 1.7%; East Asian 16.9%; South Asian 0.6%; Americas 5.7%; Ashkenazi 1.5%; Finnish 8.2%; Middle Eastern 1.9%; Amish 0.1%.
Estimated GG genotype frequency.
Showing effects for A/A genotype
Nutrition & Metabolism
Macronutrient Metabolism
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 35692035. Higher Levels.
Cardiovascular & Metabolic
Lipids & Cholesterol
Triglycerides. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 34503513. Lower Levels.
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 35213538. Higher Levels.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 37106081. Higher Levels.
Showing effects for A/G genotype
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 35692035. Typical Levels.
Triglycerides. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 34503513. Typical Levels.
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 35213538. Typical Levels.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 37106081. Typical Levels.
Showing effects for G/G genotype
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 35692035. Lower Levels.
Triglycerides. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 34503513. Higher Levels.
HDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 35213538. Lower Levels.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 37106081. Lower Levels.
What this genotype means for the people who carry it
Sample genotype: AA (Homozygous)
Inheriting two copies of the A allele ensures robust activity of the delta-6 desaturase enzyme, which is crucial for synthesizing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids [1]. This efficient conversion pathway helps maintain optimal levels of circulating eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid [1]. Studies show that this metabolic efficiency correlates with a more favorable lipid profile, characterized by lower fasting triglycerides and higher HDL cholesterol [2]. While dietary omega-3s remain beneficial, the body is naturally well-equipped to synthesize these essential fats from plant precursors like flaxseed or chia seeds [1]. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in diverse healthy fats supports overall cardiovascular and cognitive health [2].
Highly efficient omega-3 synthesis; Favorable triglyceride levels; Higher HDL cholesterol.
Sample genotype: AG (Heterozygous)
Carrying one copy of each allele results in intermediate activity of the delta-6 desaturase enzyme [1]. The body retains a moderate capacity to convert plant-derived alpha-linolenic acid into active long-chain omega-3 fatty acids [1]. Blood lipid markers, including triglycerides and HDL cholesterol, typically fall within average ranges [2]. While there is no major genetic disadvantage, relying solely on plant-based precursors might not yield optimal omega-3 levels compared to direct consumption [1]. Incorporating preformed omega-3 sources like fatty fish or high-quality algae supplements can help optimize lipid profiles [2]. Regular dietary tracking can ensure that essential fatty acid requirements are consistently met.
Moderate omega-3 synthesis; Typical triglyceride levels; Average HDL cholesterol.
Sample genotype: GG (Homozygous)
Having two copies of the G allele significantly reduces the efficiency of the delta-6 desaturase enzyme [1]. This limitation makes it difficult for the body to synthesize essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids from plant-based precursors [1]. Consequently, individuals with this genotype often exhibit lower circulating levels of EPA and DHA, alongside higher fasting triglycerides [2]. Research suggests that relying on plant sources like flaxseed is less effective for this group, making direct dietary intake of marine-based omega-3s highly beneficial [1]. Consuming fatty fish or taking high-quality fish oil or algal supplements can help bypass this metabolic bottleneck [2]. Managing dietary fat intake is a practical way to support cardiovascular wellness and maintain healthy lipid levels.
Less efficient omega-3 synthesis; Elevated triglyceride levels; Lower HDL cholesterol.
Variants with shared genetic architecture
rs174570 · FADS2 Gene · Chr 11 · Fatty Acid Metabolism
rs174574 · FADS2 Gene · Chr 11 · Fatty Acid Metabolism
rs99780 · FADS2 Gene · Chr 11 · Omega-3 Metabolism
Content updated August 2026.
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