FOXO3 rs13217795: What Your Genotype Means
The rs13217795 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the FOXO3 gene. It is frequently studied alongside other variants in this gene for its potential association with healthy aging, cardiovascular health, and survival into extreme old age.
What each genotype means
Typical aging profile
This genotype represents the common, non-longevity-associated form of this FOXO3 variant. While this variant is studied for its link to healthy aging, having this genotype does not determine your health outcomes or lifespan, which are influenced by many other genetic and lifestyle factors.
This is the most common genotype in populations of European ancestry.
Associated with healthy aging
Carrying one copy of the C allele has been statistically associated in some studies with enhanced survival to extreme old age and healthy aging. Research suggests this allele may influence the way FOXO3 gene isoforms are expressed in different tissues, though these effects are subtle and vary between individuals.
Carried by a significant proportion of the population, reflecting the high frequency of the C allele in many groups.
Enhanced healthy aging profile
Individuals with two copies of the C allele have been observed in studies to have a statistical association with increased likelihood of survival beyond age 90 and healthier aging patterns. This association is supported by findings that the C allele may help regulate FOXO3 expression, although the effect is part of a complex, polygenic trait and not a guarantee of specific health outcomes.
This genotype is common, present in a substantial subset of the European population.
Understanding the rs13217795 Variant
The rs13217795 variant is a specific change in the DNA sequence located within the FOXO3 gene on chromosome 6. In genetics, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) like rs13217795 represents a variation at a single position in the genome. This particular SNP is situated within an intronic region of the FOXO3 gene, which is a segment of DNA that does not code for proteins directly but often plays a critical role in regulating how genes are turned on or off. Researchers often study this variant as part of a larger 'haplotype block'—a group of neighboring genetic markers that are inherited together. Because these markers are physically close on the chromosome, they are frequently passed down as a unit, making it challenging for scientists to determine if a specific effect is caused by rs13217795 itself or by other nearby variants within the same regulatory region.
The Role of the FOXO3 Gene
The FOXO3 gene provides instructions for creating a protein known as a transcription factor. Transcription factors act like master switches in the cell, binding to specific areas of DNA to control the activity of other genes. The FOXO3 protein is a key player in the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved system that helps organisms respond to environmental stress, regulate metabolism, and maintain cellular health. By modulating the expression of genes involved in stress resistance, DNA repair, and apoptosis (programmed cell death), FOXO3 helps cells survive under adverse conditions. Because of these functions, the gene is widely considered a candidate for influencing the aging process. When FOXO3 is active, it may help protect cells from the cumulative damage that leads to age-related decline, which is why variations in this gene are of significant interest to researchers studying human longevity.
Research and Evidence Strength
Scientific interest in FOXO3 variants began with studies showing that certain genetic patterns were more common in individuals who lived to be centenarians. Research has consistently identified a cluster of SNPs in the second intron of FOXO3 that correlate with healthy aging and a lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease. However, the evidence for any single variant, including rs13217795, is considered limited. While meta-analyses have confirmed that the broader FOXO3 region is one of the most replicated genetic associations with extreme longevity, the specific contribution of rs13217795 remains a subject of ongoing investigation. It is important to note that longevity is a complex trait influenced by thousands of genetic variants, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Therefore, while this variant is a useful marker in population studies, it does not act as a 'longevity gene' that guarantees a specific health outcome for any individual.
Population Frequency and Distribution
The frequency of the rs13217795 variant varies across different ancestral groups, which is a common feature of genetic markers. In European populations, the minor allele frequency is approximately 0.42. This means that the variant is relatively common, appearing in a significant portion of the population. Because genetic studies are often conducted in specific cohorts, the observed associations may not be universal across all global populations. Researchers emphasize that genetic findings must be replicated in diverse groups to understand how ancestry and environment interact with these variants. The high frequency of this variant suggests that it has been maintained in the human gene pool over time, though its specific evolutionary significance is still being explored by scientists.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have access to your genetic data, you may see your genotype for rs13217795 listed as a pair of letters. It is essential to understand that this information is for educational purposes only and cannot be used to predict your personal health trajectory or lifespan. Because the evidence linking this specific SNP to health outcomes is limited and based on statistical associations in large groups, it has no clinical utility for individual medical decision-making. You should never use genetic data to make changes to your diet, exercise, or medical care without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Genetic markers are just one small piece of a very large puzzle that includes your medical history, lifestyle, and environment. Always discuss any health concerns or questions about your genetic results with your doctor or a certified genetic counselor.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency for rs13217795 is approximately 0.42 in European populations, making it a relatively common variant.
Frequently asked questions
Does having a specific FOXO3 genotype guarantee a long life?
No. Longevity is a complex trait influenced by a combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle. A single genetic variant like rs13217795 cannot predict an individual's lifespan.
Can I use this SNP to predict my risk of heart disease?
No. While some studies suggest an association between FOXO3 variants and cardiovascular health in large populations, this SNP is not a diagnostic tool for heart disease. Always consult a physician for personalized health risk assessments.
Why do different studies report different results for FOXO3?
Genetic associations can vary due to differences in study design, sample sizes, and the ancestral backgrounds of the participants. This is why replication across diverse populations is necessary to confirm findings.
Should I change my lifestyle based on my rs13217795 result?
No. You should not make any changes to your health regimen based on this genetic variant. Always discuss your health goals and any genetic information with your healthcare provider.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/28/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Non-coding FOXO3 variant identified in longitudinal aging studies as conferring an advantage for survival from midlife into advanced old age.
Common upstream intronic regulatory variant in FOXO3 correlated with human longevity and enhanced resilience against metabolic disease.
Functional non-coding variant in the key longevity regulator FOXO3 contributing to extended survival and healthspan.
An intronic variant in the FOXO3 gene consistently associated with human longevity and survival to extreme old age across multiple ethnic cohorts.
Intronic variant in FOXO3 significantly associated with exceptional longevity and survival to advanced old age, showing allele-dependent enhancer activity.
FOXO3 variant linked to longevity and reduced mortality risk.