What you carry at this position in your DNA and what research says about it.
Appetite and Weight Control: 6/10 evidence, 40 publications.
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Sample genotype (not yours): G/G
Typical Satiety Signals and Lower Metabolic Risk
Associated with typical baseline leptin levels and a standard risk for obesity. May carry a higher susceptibility to weight gain when taking specific antipsychotic medications.
What this genotype means: Typical baseline leptin levels; Lower risk of general obesity; Higher risk of weight gain from certain antipsychotics.
Sample genotype (not yours): A/A
Lower Leptin Levels and Higher Baseline Weight Risk
Associated with lower baseline leptin levels, which can reduce satiety and increase the risk of obesity. May offer some protection against weight gain from certain antipsychotic medications.
What this genotype means: Lower baseline leptin levels; Higher risk of obesity and gestational weight gain; Lower risk of weight gain but higher risk of hyperglycemia from certain antipsychotics.
Sample genotype (not yours): G/A
Intermediate Leptin Levels and Moderate Weight Risk
Linked to slightly lower baseline leptin levels and a modest increase in metabolic risk. May experience moderate susceptibility to weight changes and medication-induced side effects.
What this genotype means: Slightly lower baseline leptin levels; Moderate risk of excessive weight gain; Intermediate risk of antipsychotic-induced metabolic changes.
Gene function and biological role
Gene Function: The LEP gene provides instructions for producing leptin, a crucial hormone secreted by fat cells that regulates energy balance and body weight [1]. Leptin acts on receptors in the brain to suppress appetite and signal a feeling of fullness [2]. When fat stores increase, more leptin is typically released to signal that the body has sufficient energy [1]. Conversely, lower levels of this hormone can trigger hunger and drive food intake [2]. Beyond appetite, leptin plays a role in regulating insulin sensitivity, immune function, and cardiovascular health [3].
Variant Impact: The rs7799039 variant, also known as -2548G/A, is located in the promoter region of the LEP gene and influences how much leptin the body produces [1]. A single-nucleotide change from guanine to adenine alters the transcriptional activity of the gene, which can lead to differences in circulating leptin levels [2]. These changes in hormone levels can subsequently affect satiety signals and metabolic rate [2]. Research indicates that this genetic variation is associated with differences in body mass index, gestational weight gain, and susceptibility to metabolic syndrome [4] [5]. It also plays a role in how individuals respond to certain medications that affect weight [6].
Key Insight: This variant acts as a genetic thermostat for leptin, meaning it directly influences how easily your brain receives the signal that you are full. It also helps predict whether certain psychiatric medications are likely to cause metabolic side effects like rapid weight gain.
Location: LEP. Chromosome 7 · 7q32.1 · 128.2 Mb
Estimated prevalence by population
Global 43.2%; European 30.4%; African 81.5%; East Asian 6.6%; South Asian 22.5%; Americas 32.3%; Ashkenazi 33.8%; Finnish 24.0%; Middle Eastern 33.0%; Amish 31.8%.
Estimated GG genotype frequency.
Global 40.3%; European 49.5%; African 17.6%; East Asian 38.1%; South Asian 49.9%; Americas 49.1%; Ashkenazi 48.7%; Finnish 50.0%; Middle Eastern 48.9%; Amish 49.2%.
Estimated GA genotype frequency.
Global 16.5%; European 20.1%; African 0.9%; East Asian 55.3%; South Asian 27.6%; Americas 18.6%; Ashkenazi 17.5%; Finnish 26.0%; Middle Eastern 18.1%; Amish 19.0%.
Estimated AA genotype frequency.
Showing effects for G/G genotype
Cardiovascular & Metabolic
Obesity & Body Composition
Leptin Levels. Evidence: 5/10. Source: PMID 41158627. Typical Levels.
Weight Gain Risk. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 26167411. Typical Risk.
Pharmacogenomics
Adverse Drug Reactions
Medication Weight Gain. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19873684. Higher Risk.
Showing effects for A/A genotype
Leptin Levels. Evidence: 5/10. Source: PMID 41158627. Lower Levels.
Weight Gain Risk. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 26167411. Higher Risk.
Medication Weight Gain. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19873684. Typical Risk.
Showing effects for G/A genotype
Leptin Levels. Evidence: 5/10. Source: PMID 41158627. Slightly Lower.
Weight Gain Risk. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 26167411. Slightly Higher Risk.
Medication Weight Gain. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 19873684. Moderate Risk.
What this genotype means for the people who carry it
Sample genotype: GG (Homozygous)
Maintaining balanced leptin levels is essential for proper appetite regulation and energy expenditure [1]. Having two copies of the G allele is generally associated with typical circulating leptin levels, helping the brain receive clear satiety signals [1]. This genotype is linked to a lower baseline risk for obesity and metabolic disturbances compared to carrying the A allele [2]. However, clinical studies show that this group may be more susceptible to weight gain and metabolic syndrome when treated with atypical antipsychotics like risperidone or clozapine [3] [4]. Monitoring dietary habits and maintaining regular physical activity can help support metabolic health [5]. Understanding these genetic tendencies allows for more personalized lifestyle and wellness planning.
Typical baseline leptin levels; Lower risk of general obesity; Higher risk of weight gain from certain antipsychotics.
Sample genotype: AA (Homozygous)
Lower circulating leptin levels can weaken the signals that tell your brain you are full, potentially leading to increased calorie intake [1]. Having two copies of the A allele is linked to lower baseline leptin and a higher risk of obesity and insulin resistance [1] [2]. This genotype also correlates with an increased risk of excessive gestational weight gain during pregnancy [3]. Interestingly, some pediatric studies suggest that this group may experience less weight gain when taking antipsychotics like risperidone compared to those with the G allele [4]. However, other studies note a higher risk of hyperglycemia under these medications, highlighting a complex metabolic profile [5]. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods and mindful eating practices can help support natural satiety cues.
Lower baseline leptin levels; Higher risk of obesity and gestational weight gain; Lower risk of weight gain but higher risk of hyperglycemia from certain antipsychotics.
Sample genotype: GA (Heterozygous)
Carrying one copy of each allele often results in an intermediate metabolic profile [1]. Satiety signals may be slightly less pronounced due to marginally lower baseline leptin levels [1]. This intermediate state is associated with a modest increase in the risk of excessive weight gain, including during pregnancy [2]. When taking certain atypical antipsychotics, there is a moderate risk of experiencing metabolic changes or weight gain [3] [4]. Incorporating soluble fiber and regular aerobic exercise has been shown to help manage cardiovascular biomarkers in individuals with this genetic makeup [5]. Consistent lifestyle habits can play a major role in stabilizing energy balance.
Slightly lower baseline leptin levels; Moderate risk of excessive weight gain; Intermediate risk of antipsychotic-induced metabolic changes.
Variants with shared genetic architecture
rs2167270 · LEP Gene · Chr 7 · Weight and Cancer Risk
rs10487505 · LEP Gene · Chr 7 · Weight and Appetite Control
rs1421085 · FTO Gene · Chr 16 · Obesity and Weight Gain
Genetic variants in leptin: Determinants of obesity and leptin levels in South Indian population.
The impact of obesity-related SNP on appetite and energy intake.
Pharmacogenetics of Risperidone and Cardiovascular Risk in Children and Adolescents.
Content updated August 2026.
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