PRLHR rs118590029: Understanding This Rare Genetic Variant
The rs118590029 variant is a rare genetic change located in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of the PRLHR gene. This gene encodes a receptor involved in neuroendocrine stress response pathways and the regulation of physiological processes like food intake.
What each genotype means
Common genetic profile
This is the most frequently observed genotype for this location in the PRLHR gene. As this variant is located in the 3' UTR, it may influence how the cell regulates the expression of the prolactin-releasing hormone receptor, though specific functional consequences for this genotype remain limited in current research.
This is the major allele genotype found in the vast majority of the global population.
Rare variant carrier
You carry one copy of the rare T allele at this position. Because this variant is located in the 3' UTR of the PRLHR gene, which is involved in neuroendocrine stress response pathways, its impact on receptor function is currently not well-defined by clinical research. There is no evidence to suggest this genotype requires specific medical action.
This genotype is extremely rare, appearing in a very small fraction of the population based on current genomic databases.
Rare variant homozygote
You carry two copies of the rare T allele. While the PRLHR gene is known to play a role in stress response and neuroendocrine signaling, the functional significance of this specific 3' UTR variant is not established in scientific literature. Current evidence is limited, and this finding should not be used to infer health outcomes or guide medical decisions.
This genotype is exceptionally rare and has not been observed in most large-scale population reference panels.
What is the rs118590029 Variant?
The rs118590029 variant is a specific change in the DNA sequence located within the PRLHR gene. Specifically, it is situated in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR). The 3' UTR is a segment of messenger RNA (mRNA) that follows the coding region of a gene. While this region does not provide instructions for building the protein itself, it plays a critical role in regulating how much protein is produced, how stable the mRNA is, and where the protein is expressed within the body. Because this variant is located in a regulatory region rather than the protein-coding sequence, its primary potential impact is on the fine-tuning of gene expression rather than altering the structure of the receptor protein.
The Role of the PRLHR Gene
The PRLHR gene provides instructions for creating the prolactin-releasing hormone receptor, also known as GPR10. This receptor is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, which acts as a communication hub on the surface of cells. The receptor binds to prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP) and is involved in several complex physiological functions. Research indicates that the PRLHR receptor is implicated in the regulation of food intake, energy balance, and the body's response to stress. It is also expressed in the anterior pituitary gland, where it helps regulate the release of hormones. Because of its involvement in these pathways, the gene is a subject of interest in studies concerning metabolism, hypertension, and neuroendocrine signaling.
Scientific Evidence and Associations
Current scientific evidence regarding the rs118590029 variant is classified as limited. While the PRLHR gene itself has been linked to various metabolic and signaling functions, including potential associations with hypertension and colorectal cancer risk, specific clinical data regarding the functional impact of the rs118590029 variant is sparse. Most genomic databases categorize this variant as rare, meaning it is found in a very small percentage of the population. Because it is rare and located in a regulatory region, researchers have not yet established a clear, direct link between this specific variant and any particular health outcome or disease state. It is important to view this variant as a subject of ongoing research rather than a diagnostic marker for any medical condition.
Population Frequency
The rs118590029 variant is considered rare across global populations. Genomic data from large-scale sequencing projects, such as gnomAD, indicate that this variant appears at a very low frequency in the general population. Because it is rare, it is difficult to draw broad conclusions about its distribution across different ancestral groups. Most individuals do not carry this specific variant, and its presence is not currently associated with any known clinical phenotype in the general population.
What You Can Do With This Information
Genetic information can be complex, and it is important to understand that having a rare variant does not necessarily mean you will experience any health effects. Because the evidence for rs118590029 is limited, this information should not be used to make medical decisions or to predict health outcomes. If you have received a report mentioning this variant, it is best to view it as a point of scientific interest rather than a clinical finding. You should never use genetic data to diagnose yourself or change any prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your health or family history, discuss them with a doctor or a certified genetic counselor who can provide context based on your complete medical profile.
How common is this variant?
The rs118590029 variant is classified as rare, appearing at a very low frequency in global population databases.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs118590029 associated with a specific disease?
There is currently no established clinical association between the rs118590029 variant and any specific disease. While the PRLHR gene is involved in metabolic and stress pathways, this specific variant lacks sufficient evidence to link it to a health condition.
Should I be worried if I have this variant?
No, there is no reason for concern. Most genetic variants are neutral, and because this variant is rare and located in a regulatory region, it is not currently considered a marker for any medical risk.
Can I use this information to change my diet or lifestyle?
Genetic information regarding this variant is not actionable. You should not change your diet, lifestyle, or medical treatments based on this variant, as there is no scientific evidence to support such changes.
Where can I find more information about my genetic report?
If you have questions about a genetic report, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare provider or a genetic counselor. They can help interpret your results in the context of your overall health and family history.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/21/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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