AGTR2 rs11091046: What Your Genotype Means
The rs11091046 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the AGTR2 gene. It has been studied for its potential associations with muscle fiber type composition and athletic performance, particularly in the context of endurance and power-based activities.
What each genotype means
Typical Fast-Twitch Muscle Function
Your genotype corresponds to the homozygous functional form (often denoted as 577RR in the literature), which allows your fast-twitch muscle fibers to produce normal levels of the alpha-actinin-3 protein. Research cohorts have observed a modest statistical enrichment of this genotype among elite sprint and power athletes compared to the general population. However, having this genotype provides only a small contribution to overall muscular capacity, as athletic performance is influenced by many genes, physical training, and lifestyle factors.
Carried by approximately 35% to 45% of individuals across European and American populations, and over 60% of people of African ancestry where the C allele is most common.
Intermediate Fast-Twitch Muscle Function
You carry one functional allele and one non-functional stop allele (commonly referred to as 577RX in research studies), which typically results in intermediate levels of alpha-actinin-3 in fast-twitch skeletal muscle. Studies indicate that individuals with this heterozygous genotype generally maintain normal sprint, power, and endurance capacities without significant functional deficits. Because overall athletic ability and muscle response depend on many lifestyle and genetic variables, carrying a single T allele has a limited and variable effect across different populations.
Found in approximately 40% to 50% of individuals in most global populations, making it one of the most common genotypes.
Alpha-Actinin-3 Deficiency
Your genotype corresponds to complete alpha-actinin-3 protein deficiency (frequently designated as 577XX in the literature) due to two copies of the nonsense variant. This condition is completely benign because a related muscle protein, alpha-actinin-2, compensates for the structural absence. While some studies show this genotype is underrepresented among top-tier sprint and power competitors, it has occasionally been linked to slightly more efficient aerobic metabolism in endurance disciplines, though scientific evidence remains mixed and does not restrict everyday fitness.
Carried by roughly 16% to 20% of individuals of European descent and up to 25% of East Asian populations, but seen in less than 5% of individuals of African ancestry.
Understanding the rs11091046 Variant
The rs11091046 variant is a genetic polymorphism situated in the AGTR2 gene, which is located on the X chromosome. In genetics, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant involves an A to C base substitution. Because it is located on the X chromosome, the inheritance pattern and expression of this variant differ between males, who have one X chromosome, and females, who have two. Researchers study such variants to understand how minor differences in our genetic code might contribute to the wide range of physiological diversity observed in human populations, including variations in physical traits and athletic potential.
The Role of the AGTR2 Gene
The AGTR2 gene encodes the Angiotensin II Receptor Type 2 protein. This receptor is a key component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), a hormonal pathway that is primarily recognized for its role in regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and cardiovascular function. Beyond its cardiovascular influence, the RAS is involved in various physiological processes, including the regulation of skeletal muscle growth and metabolism. Because the AGTR2 receptor is expressed in various tissues, including muscle, scientists have investigated whether variations in this gene might influence how muscles adapt to physical stress or training. While the primary function of the gene is hormonal, its potential secondary effects on muscle fiber composition have made it a subject of interest in sports genomics research.
Research and Evidence Strength
The evidence linking rs11091046 to athletic performance is currently considered limited and exploratory. Some studies have suggested that this variant may be associated with differences in muscle fiber type composition, specifically the ratio of slow-twitch to fast-twitch fibers in the vastus lateralis muscle. Some research has hypothesized that the A allele might be associated with traits beneficial for endurance performance, while other investigations have looked at its potential role in power-based activities. However, it is important to note that athletic performance is a highly complex, polygenic trait influenced by hundreds of genetic variants, environmental factors, training, and nutrition. No single genetic variant can reliably predict an individual's athletic success, and findings from small-scale association studies often require replication in larger, more diverse cohorts to confirm their significance.
Population Frequency
Genetic variants like rs11091046 are distributed differently across global populations. The frequency of the A and C alleles can vary significantly depending on ancestral background. Because this variant is located on the X chromosome, population frequency data must account for the sex of the individuals being studied. While specific global frequency percentages for rs11091046 are documented in large-scale genomic databases, it is essential to recognize that these frequencies are averages. An individual's specific genotype is determined by their unique inheritance, and these population-level statistics do not dictate the physical capabilities of any single person.
Interpreting Genetic Information
It is crucial to understand that genetic testing for variants like rs11091046 is for educational and informational purposes only. This information cannot be used to diagnose medical conditions, predict future athletic performance, or create personalized training regimens. The science of sports genomics is still in its infancy, and the influence of any single SNP is typically very small compared to the impact of dedicated training, coaching, and lifestyle choices. If you are interested in how your genetics might relate to your health or physical performance, it is best to consult with a qualified professional, such as a sports scientist or a genetic counselor, who can help you interpret these findings within the context of your overall health and goals.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency for rs11091046 varies across different ancestral populations, reflecting the natural diversity of the human genome.
Frequently asked questions
Can this genetic test predict if I will be a professional athlete?
No. Athletic performance is a complex trait influenced by many genes, environmental factors, and years of training. No single genetic variant can determine or predict athletic success.
Is the rs11091046 variant linked to any health conditions?
The AGTR2 gene is involved in blood pressure regulation, but rs11091046 is primarily studied in the context of muscle physiology. Always consult a physician regarding any concerns about your cardiovascular health.
Why does the X chromosome location matter for this variant?
Because the AGTR2 gene is on the X chromosome, males have only one copy of the gene, while females have two. This means the inheritance and expression patterns are different between the sexes.
Should I change my workout routine based on my genotype?
No. You should not alter your exercise or health regimen based on a single genetic variant. Consult with a certified trainer or healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective fitness plan.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/10/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Variant in linkage disequilibrium with the classical R577X locus modulating alpha-actinin-3 expression in fast-twitch skeletal muscle fibers.
A variant in the alpha-actinin-3 gene associated with muscle power and athletic performance.
This variant in the alpha-actinin-3 gene is in linkage disequilibrium with the classic R577X null allele and modulates skeletal muscle contraction velocity and sprint versus endurance athletic capacity.
ACTN3 R577X is the classic sprint/power versus endurance muscle-fiber variant.
A synonymous tag SNP in strong linkage disequilibrium with the functional ACTN3 R577X locus, extensively utilized in high-density genome-wide arrays to capture fast-twitch skeletal muscle fiber dynamics and sprint capabilities.