NFASC rs11542038: What Your Genotype Means
The rs11542038 variant is a common genetic marker located within the NFASC gene. It has been identified in research as being associated with variations in relative circadian amplitude, which relates to how individuals express rest-activity rhythms.
What each genotype means
Typical circadian amplitude
This genotype represents the most common form of the NFASC gene variant in many populations. Research suggests this version is associated with standard patterns of rest-activity rhythms, though individual circadian behavior is influenced by many genetic and environmental factors.
This is the most frequent genotype observed in global populations.
Varied circadian amplitude
Carrying one copy of the G allele is associated with subtle variations in relative circadian amplitude compared to the common AA genotype. Because circadian rhythms are complex and polygenic, this variant provides only a small contribution to how your rest-activity cycles may fluctuate.
This heterozygous genotype is found at moderate frequencies across diverse ancestral groups.
Distinct circadian amplitude
This genotype is associated with measurable differences in relative circadian amplitude derived from rest-activity data. While this variant is linked to these rhythms, it is not a diagnostic indicator of sleep health, as many other genes and lifestyle factors play a larger role in your daily cycle.
This genotype is less common than the AA or AG combinations in most studied populations.
Understanding the rs11542038 Variant
The rs11542038 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the NFASC gene. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant is cataloged in public databases as a common marker, meaning it appears frequently across diverse human populations. It is situated within the genomic region of the NFASC gene, which provides instructions for creating the neurofascin protein. Researchers study such variants to understand how subtle differences in our genetic code might contribute to the diversity of human physiological traits, such as the timing and intensity of our daily biological cycles.
The Role of the NFASC Gene
The NFASC gene encodes neurofascin, a protein that plays a critical role in the nervous system. Neurofascin is an immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecule essential for the development and organization of the axon initial segment and the nodes of Ranvier. These structures are vital for the efficient transmission of electrical signals along nerve cells. While mutations in this gene can lead to rare, severe neurological conditions, such as autosomal recessive ataxia with demyelinating neuropathy, the common variant rs11542038 is not typically associated with these clinical disorders. Instead, it is studied in the context of complex, polygenic traits where many small genetic variations contribute to a specific phenotype, such as the regulation of circadian rhythms.
Circadian Rhythms and Research Evidence
Current research, including data from the GWAS Catalog, has identified an association between rs11542038 and variations in relative circadian amplitude. Circadian amplitude refers to the strength or 'peak-to-trough' difference in an individual's rest-activity cycle over a 24-hour period. The evidence for this association is considered moderate, reflecting the complex nature of circadian biology, which is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. It is important to note that while this variant is statistically linked to these rhythmic patterns, it does not act as a sole determinant. Circadian traits are highly polygenic, meaning they are influenced by the cumulative effect of many different genetic markers, as well as lifestyle factors like light exposure and sleep habits.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
When encountering information about variants like rs11542038, it is essential to maintain a balanced perspective. This variant is a common, naturally occurring difference in the human genome and is not a diagnostic tool for any medical condition. Because the association with circadian amplitude is based on statistical trends across large populations, it cannot predict an individual's specific sleep patterns or health outcomes. Readers should view this information as educational rather than clinical. If you have concerns about your sleep quality, circadian rhythm, or overall health, the most appropriate course of action is to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or a sleep specialist who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your personal medical history.
How common is this variant?
The rs11542038 variant is classified as a common polymorphism, meaning it is widely distributed across various global ancestral populations.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs11542038 a cause of sleep disorders?
No, rs11542038 is not a known cause of sleep disorders. It is a common genetic variant associated with natural variations in circadian amplitude, not a clinical diagnosis.
Can I use this SNP to predict my chronotype?
No, this SNP cannot be used to predict your chronotype. Circadian traits are complex and influenced by many genes and environmental factors, making individual prediction impossible based on a single variant.
What should I do if I have this variant?
No action is required. This is a common genetic variation found in many healthy individuals and does not require medical intervention or lifestyle changes.
Where can I find more information on NFASC?
You can find authoritative information on the NFASC gene through resources like the NCBI Gene database or the OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) catalog.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/18/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs11542038?
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