What you carry at this position in your DNA and what research says about it.
Obesity and BMI Risk: 8/10 evidence, 22 publications.
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Sample genotype (not yours): A/A
Typical BMI and Lower Obesity Risk
Carrying zero copies of the G risk allele is linked to a typical body mass index. This genotype provides a natural protective baseline against genetic weight gain.
What this genotype means: Typical genetic predisposition to obesity; Favorable baseline for weight management.
Sample genotype (not yours): A/G
Moderately Higher BMI and Obesity Risk
Carrying one copy of the G risk allele is associated with a moderate increase in body mass index. Weight management may require more conscious lifestyle efforts.
What this genotype means: Moderately increased risk of elevated BMI; Slightly altered response to standard weight loss programs.
Sample genotype (not yours): G/G
Higher BMI and Elevated Obesity Risk
Carrying two copies of the G risk allele is linked to a higher average body mass index. Proactive lifestyle strategies are key to managing weight successfully.
What this genotype means: Increased genetic risk for higher body mass index; Greater susceptibility to weight regain after loss.
Gene function and biological role
Gene Function: The KCTD15 gene encodes a protein containing a potassium channel tetramerisation domain, which is highly expressed in the human brain and central nervous system [1]. Research indicates that KCTD15 plays an essential role during embryonic development, particularly in inhibiting neural crest formation [2]. In adults, this gene is active in brain regions that regulate appetite, energy balance, and food intake [1]. Variations near KCTD15 are consistently linked to metabolic traits, body mass index, and the risk of developing obesity [1] [2].
Variant Impact: The rs29941 variant is an intergenic genetic marker located on chromosome 19 near the KCTD15 gene [1]. This single-nucleotide change does not alter a protein sequence directly but instead influences the expression and regulation of the nearby KCTD15 gene [1]. The G allele of this variant is a well-established risk factor that increases susceptibility to elevated body mass index and obesity [1] [2]. Conversely, the A allele is associated with a lower genetic predisposition to weight gain [2].
Key Insight: This genetic variant is unique because it influences body mass index consistently across both childhood and adulthood, unlike many other obesity-related genes that only show prominent effects later in life.
Location: KCTD15. Chromosome 19 · 19q13.11 · 33.8 Mb
Estimated prevalence by population
Global 10.5%; European 10.1%; African 3.2%; East Asian 58.4%; South Asian 15.0%; Americas 12.3%; Ashkenazi 6.6%; Finnish 15.2%; Middle Eastern 5.3%; Amish 13.1%.
Estimated AA genotype frequency.
Global 39.7%; European 43.3%; African 29.3%; East Asian 36.0%; South Asian 47.5%; Americas 45.5%; Ashkenazi 38.3%; Finnish 47.5%; Middle Eastern 35.4%; Amish 46.2%.
Estimated AG genotype frequency.
Global 49.8%; European 46.6%; African 67.5%; East Asian 5.6%; South Asian 37.6%; Americas 42.2%; Ashkenazi 55.1%; Finnish 37.3%; Middle Eastern 59.4%; Amish 40.7%.
Estimated GG genotype frequency.
Showing effects for A/A genotype
Cardiovascular & Metabolic
Obesity & Body Composition
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Typical BMI.
Body Weight. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Typical Weight.
Weight Loss Response. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 22179955. Typical Response.
Showing effects for A/G genotype
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Increased BMI.
Body Weight. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Increased Weight.
Weight Loss Response. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 22179955. Altered Response.
Showing effects for G/G genotype
Body Mass Index. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Higher BMI.
Body Weight. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19079260. Higher Weight.
What this genotype means for the people who carry it
Sample genotype: AA (Homozygous)
Having the A/A genotype means inheriting two copies of the protective A allele at this locus. Large-scale genome-wide association studies show that individuals with this genotype tend to have a lower average body mass index and body weight compared to those carrying the G allele [1]. This protective effect is observed consistently throughout life, influencing both childhood growth and adult weight patterns [2]. Clinical trials, such as the Diabetes Prevention Program, suggest that individuals with this baseline genotype may also find it easier to maintain weight loss after standard lifestyle interventions [3]. While genetics lay the foundation, maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity remains highly effective for overall metabolic health.
Typical genetic predisposition to obesity; Favorable baseline for weight management.
Sample genotype: AG (Heterozygous)
Inheriting one copy of the G risk allele and one copy of the protective A allele leads to a moderately increased genetic risk for higher body mass index [1]. This genetic influence begins early in life, affecting childhood weight development, and persists into adulthood [2]. The G allele is thought to subtly alter the regulation of the KCTD15 gene in brain regions that control appetite and satiety [1]. Furthermore, clinical data suggest that individuals with this genotype may experience treatment-specific responses to lifestyle modifications or weight loss interventions [3]. Because this genetic effect is moderate, proactive dietary choices and consistent physical activity can successfully counteract the inherited predisposition to weight gain.
Moderately increased risk of elevated BMI; Slightly altered response to standard weight loss programs.
Sample genotype: GG (Homozygous)
Carrying two copies of the G risk allele represents the highest genetic predisposition to elevated body mass index at this locus [1]. This genetic association is highly replicated across diverse populations and is shown to influence body weight from early childhood through adulthood [2]. The double risk genotype is associated with a higher likelihood of developing severe obesity, likely due to subtle differences in appetite regulation and energy homeostasis governed by the KCTD15 gene [1]. Clinical studies indicate that individuals with this genotype may face a greater challenge with weight regain and may require tailored support during weight loss interventions [3]. Emphasizing a structured lifestyle plan, including portion control and regular exercise, is particularly beneficial for individuals with this genetic profile.
Increased genetic risk for higher body mass index; Greater susceptibility to weight regain after loss.
Variants with shared genetic architecture
rs11084753 · KCTD15 Gene · Chr 19 · Weight Regulation
rs3101336 · NEGR1 Gene · Chr 1 · Obesity and BMI Risk
rs3817334 · MTCH2 Gene · Chr 11 · Obesity and BMI Risk
Content updated August 2026.
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