SLC6A15 rs1031681: Understanding Your Genetic Predisposition
The rs1031681 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the SLC6A15 gene. Research has identified an association between the A allele of this variant and a potential increase in the risk of developing depression in individuals under the age of 55.
What each genotype means
Increased depression risk
This genotype is associated with a 1.3x increased risk for depression in individuals under the age of 55. This association is based on statistical findings from large-scale population studies and does not mean you will develop the condition. Please consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your mental health.
This genotype is common, occurring in a significant portion of the population based on the reported global minor allele frequency.
Average risk profile
This genotype represents a heterozygous state for the rs1031681 variant. Current research does not indicate a significant increase in depression risk for this specific combination compared to the baseline population. As with all genetic findings, this is only one factor among many that influence health.
This is a common genotype found in many individuals across diverse ancestral backgrounds.
Average risk profile
This genotype is considered the baseline or normal profile for this variant in the context of depression risk. It is not associated with the increased risk observed in carriers of the A allele. Genetic factors are complex, and this result should be viewed as part of your overall health picture.
This genotype is common and frequently observed in the general population.
What is rs1031681?
A single nucleotide polymorphism, or SNP, is a variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals. The variant rs1031681 is located within the SLC6A15 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein that functions as a transporter in the brain. In genetic studies, researchers look for correlations between specific alleles—the different versions of a gene—and health outcomes. For rs1031681, the two possible alleles are A and G. When scientists analyze large groups of people, they compare the frequency of these alleles in individuals with a specific condition, such as depression, against those without it. This helps identify whether a particular genetic marker appears more frequently in one group, suggesting a statistical association that warrants further investigation into how that specific region of the genome might influence biological processes.
The Role of the SLC6A15 Gene
The SLC6A15 gene encodes a protein known as a neutral amino acid transporter. This protein is primarily expressed in neurons, the specialized cells that transmit information throughout the brain and nervous system. By transporting amino acids, this protein plays a role in maintaining the balance of neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers that allow neurons to communicate. Because neurotransmitter signaling is fundamental to mood regulation, cognitive function, and stress response, researchers have long hypothesized that variations in genes like SLC6A15 could influence an individual's vulnerability to mood disorders. Studies have suggested that alterations in the expression or function of this transporter might affect hippocampal volume and glutamate levels, both of which are biological markers often studied in the context of major depressive disorder and stress-related conditions.
Evidence and Research Associations
The association between SLC6A15 and depression has been a subject of interest in psychiatric genetics for over a decade. Early genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified this gene as a candidate for stress vulnerability and major depression. Specifically, the A allele of rs1031681 has been statistically linked to a 1.3x increased risk for depression in individuals under the age of 55. It is important to note that while this association is statistically significant in certain cohorts, the evidence is considered moderate. Depression is a complex, multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of numerous genetic variants, environmental factors, and life experiences. No single genetic variant acts as a definitive cause of depression. Instead, these findings contribute to a broader understanding of the genetic architecture of mental health, helping scientists map the biological pathways that may contribute to individual differences in stress resilience.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
Understanding your genetic profile regarding rs1031681 provides insight into your biological predispositions, but it does not provide a medical diagnosis. Because depression is influenced by many factors, including environment, lifestyle, and other genetic markers, having a specific genotype does not guarantee that an individual will or will not develop a condition. This information is intended for educational purposes to help you understand the current state of genomic research. It is not a tool for clinical decision-making. If you have concerns about your mental health or are interested in how your genetic background might relate to your well-being, the most appropriate step is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional. They can provide context, discuss your personal history, and offer guidance on evidence-based strategies for maintaining mental health that are tailored to your specific needs.
How common is this variant?
The GMAF (Global Minor Allele Frequency) for this variant is 0.4284, indicating that the alleles are relatively common across diverse populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does having the A allele mean I will get depressed?
No. Genetic associations are statistical, not deterministic. Many people with the A allele never experience depression, and many people without it do.
Can I use this information to choose medication?
No. This variant is associated with risk predisposition, not medication response. Always discuss any changes to your health or medication with your doctor or pharmacist.
Is SLC6A15 the only gene linked to depression?
Absolutely not. Depression is a highly polygenic trait, meaning it is influenced by hundreds or thousands of small genetic variations across the entire genome.
Where can I find more information on this gene?
You can search for 'SLC6A15' on the NCBI Gene database or the GWAS Catalog to see the latest peer-reviewed research and clinical associations.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/20/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs1031681?
Upload a raw DNA file from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, or FamilyTreeDNA and see this variant — plus thousands more — interpreted in your full report.
Get my report — $29