SLC16A11 rs11559024: Understanding Diabetes Risk Associations
The rs11559024 variant is a genetic change located within the SLC16A11 gene, which encodes a protein involved in cellular transport. Research has statistically associated this variant with an increased predisposition to type 2 diabetes, particularly in individuals of Latin American and East Asian ancestry.
What each genotype means
Typical risk profile
This genotype represents the common version of the SLC16A11 gene found in many populations. Research indicates that individuals without the risk-associated variant do not carry the specific genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes linked to this locus. Please note that type 2 diabetes is a complex, multifactorial condition influenced by many genetic and lifestyle factors.
This is the most common genotype in European and African populations, where the risk-associated allele is rare.
Increased diabetes risk
Carrying one copy of this variant is associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest this variant may alter lipid metabolism in the liver, contributing to the condition's development. Because this is a complex trait, you should discuss your overall health and diabetes risk factors with your healthcare provider.
This genotype is frequently observed in individuals of Native American and East Asian ancestry, but is rare in European and African populations.
Elevated diabetes risk
Carrying two copies of this variant is associated with a higher predisposition to type 2 diabetes compared to those with one or no copies. Research indicates that this variant, which may have originated in Neanderthals, is linked to changes in fatty acid metabolism. As this is a multifactorial condition, please consult with a clinician to evaluate your personal health profile and preventative strategies.
This genotype is most common in populations with significant Native American ancestry, where the risk haplotype is prevalent.
What is the rs11559024 Variant?
The rs11559024 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated within the SLC16A11 gene. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant is categorized as a coding missense mutation, meaning the change in the DNA sequence results in a different amino acid being incorporated into the SLC16A11 protein. Because proteins are the functional building blocks of our cells, alterations in their structure can potentially influence how they perform their biological tasks. Scientists study these variants to understand how subtle differences in our genetic code contribute to complex health traits, such as how the body processes glucose and fats. While the variant is identified in genomic databases, it is important to remember that a single SNP is rarely the sole cause of a complex condition like diabetes, which typically involves a combination of many genetic factors and environmental influences.
The Role of the SLC16A11 Gene
The SLC16A11 gene provides instructions for making a protein known as monocarboxylate transporter 11. This protein belongs to a family of transporters that help move molecules, such as lactate and pyruvate, across cell membranes. These molecules are essential for energy metabolism. Research suggests that SLC16A11 is expressed in tissues like the liver, where it may play a role in regulating lipid and fatty acid metabolism. When the function of this transporter is altered, it may disrupt the normal balance of fats and glucose within the cell. Studies have indicated that these metabolic disruptions are linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By investigating how this transporter functions, researchers aim to better understand the underlying biological pathways that contribute to glucose homeostasis and why certain genetic variations might make some individuals more susceptible to metabolic challenges than others.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between SLC16A11 variants and type 2 diabetes has been a significant focus of genetic research, particularly in populations where these variants are more common. Large-scale studies, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS), have identified that certain haplotypes—groups of variants inherited together—in this gene are linked to a higher risk of diabetes. However, the evidence strength for any single variant like rs11559024 is often considered limited or context-dependent. While statistical associations are robust in specific ancestral groups, the exact biological mechanism by which this specific variant contributes to disease risk is still being explored. Some studies suggest it may affect insulin action or secretory response, while others point to broader impacts on lipid metabolism. Because these findings are based on population-level statistics, they describe trends rather than individual outcomes. It is essential to view these results as part of a larger, ongoing scientific effort to map the complex genetic architecture of metabolic health.
Population Frequency and Ancestry
Genetic variants are not distributed equally across all human populations, and SLC16A11 is a prime example of this diversity. The rs11559024 variant shows significant differences in frequency depending on ancestral background. It is found at a much higher frequency in Hispanic and Admixed American populations, with a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.30. In contrast, this variant is quite rare in European populations, where the frequency is often reported as less than 0.02. These differences highlight the importance of studying diverse populations to gain a complete picture of human genetic variation. When a variant is common in one group but rare in another, it can lead to disparities in disease risk profiles. Understanding these ancestral patterns helps researchers refine their models of disease susceptibility and ensures that genetic insights are relevant and applicable to the specific populations being studied.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have information about your genotype for rs11559024, it is important to interpret it within the correct context. Genetic predisposition is not a diagnosis; having a variant associated with a higher risk does not mean an individual will develop a condition, nor does the absence of the variant guarantee protection. Type 2 diabetes is a multifactorial condition influenced by diet, physical activity, lifestyle, and many other genetic markers. This information should not be used to make medical decisions or to predict personal health outcomes. If you are concerned about your risk for diabetes or have questions about your metabolic health, the most appropriate step is to consult with a healthcare professional. A doctor or a registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance based on your clinical history, blood work, and overall health status, which are far more predictive of your current health than any single genetic variant.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency is approximately 0.30 in Hispanic/Admixed American populations, while it remains rare at less than 0.02 in European populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does having the rs11559024 variant mean I will get diabetes?
No, having this variant does not mean you will develop diabetes. It is only one of many factors, including lifestyle and other genes, that contribute to your overall risk.
Can I change my risk if I have this variant?
Yes, lifestyle factors such as maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity are known to significantly influence diabetes risk, regardless of your genetic background.
Why is this variant more common in some populations?
Genetic variants often become more common in specific populations due to historical migration patterns, natural selection, or genetic drift over thousands of years.
Should I get tested for this variant?
Routine testing for this specific variant is not standard medical practice. Clinical risk assessment for diabetes is typically based on blood glucose levels and other established health markers.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/20/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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A missense variant on an archaic introgressed haplotype that decreases hepatic lipid transport and elevates type 2 diabetes risk, particularly in Latino and Native American populations.
Located in the SLC16A11 region, this variant is part of a widely documented haplotype associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly in Hispanic and East Asian populations.
Chromosome 19p13 cross-ancestral intronic risk variant strongly associated with laryngeal cancer.
This missense variant alters hepatic lipid and carbohydrate handling and is strongly associated with an increased genetic risk for type 2 diabetes.
Common risk allele associated with impaired lipid metabolism and elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, predominantly in Hispanic and Native American ancestries.