LHCGR rs13405728: What Your Genotype Means
The rs13405728 variant is a genetic change located within the LHCGR gene, which provides instructions for a hormone receptor essential for reproductive health. Research has identified this variant as a potential susceptibility factor for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), particularly in East Asian populations.
What each genotype means
Reduced PCOS susceptibility
You carry two copies of the protective C allele (also reported in opposite-strand literature as the G allele). Genome-wide association studies, particularly in East Asian populations, observe that this genotype is correlated with lower relative odds of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and lower testosterone levels. However, PCOS is a multifactorial condition influenced by many genetic and lifestyle factors, and this statistical finding does not rule out developing reproductive or metabolic symptoms.
Carried by approximately 5% to 15% of East Asian individuals and fewer than 6% of individuals of European ancestry.
Intermediate PCOS susceptibility
You carry one copy of the protective C allele and one copy of the common T allele. Research in East Asian cohorts indicates an intermediate statistical profile for luteinizing hormone receptor signaling and PCOS risk compared to homozygous genotypes. Findings have shown mixed or non-significant replication in European ancestry studies, highlighting that the clinical effect of this variant may vary across genetic backgrounds.
Carried by roughly 35% to 45% of people of East Asian descent and about 30% to 38% of people of European descent.
Baseline PCOS susceptibility
You carry two copies of the common T allele (also designated as the A allele on the opposite genomic strand). In published association studies of Chinese cohorts, this genotype was linked to baseline or slightly higher susceptibility to PCOS and higher circulating testosterone and lipid levels compared to C allele carriers. Because overall evidence remains limited and varies by ancestry, this common genotype alone does not diagnose PCOS or any metabolic disorder.
Carried by roughly 50% of individuals of East Asian ancestry and over 55% of individuals of European ancestry.
What is rs13405728?
The rs13405728 variant is a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the LHCGR gene. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence. This specific variant is classified as an intronic regulatory variant, meaning it sits within a non-coding region of the gene that may influence how the gene is expressed or regulated. Because it is not located in the protein-coding portion of the gene, it does not change the structure of the protein itself, but it may affect the efficiency or timing of gene activity. Scientists study such variants to understand how subtle differences in our genetic code can contribute to complex health conditions. It is important to note that while this variant is a subject of scientific interest, it is just one of many genetic and environmental factors that contribute to human health traits.
The Role of the LHCGR Gene
The LHCGR gene encodes the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor, a protein found on the surface of certain cells in the ovaries and testes. This receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor that binds to luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). In the female reproductive system, this receptor is critical for follicular maturation and the process of ovulation. When LH binds to the receptor, it triggers signaling cascades that allow the ovary to respond to the mid-cycle LH surge. Because of its central role in reproductive hormone signaling, researchers have long investigated whether variations in this gene might contribute to endocrine disorders. Understanding how this receptor functions helps scientists explore the biological pathways that may be altered in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where hormone regulation and ovulation are often disrupted.
Research and PCOS Association
The association between rs13405728 and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been a focus of several genetic studies, particularly in East Asian cohorts. Multiple meta-analyses and case-control studies have reported a statistically significant association between this variant and PCOS risk in these populations. For instance, some studies have observed that specific alleles of this SNP are more frequent in control groups than in individuals diagnosed with PCOS, suggesting a potential protective effect or a link to disease susceptibility. However, the evidence is considered limited and often ancestry-specific. Research has consistently shown that this variant is not informative or does not show the same association patterns in European-derived populations. This highlights the complexity of genetic associations, where the impact of a single variant can vary significantly depending on the broader genetic background of the population being studied.
Understanding Your Results
If you have information about your genotype for rs13405728, it is important to interpret it within the context of current scientific knowledge. This variant is a tool for researchers to understand the biological underpinnings of PCOS, but it is not a diagnostic test. PCOS is a complex, heterogeneous condition influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Having a specific genotype does not mean you will or will not develop a condition, nor does it provide a definitive medical diagnosis. Genetic associations are statistical observations across large groups of people and cannot predict individual health outcomes. If you have concerns about your reproductive health, hormone levels, or symptoms associated with PCOS, you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider or a reproductive endocrinologist. They can provide personalized medical advice, diagnostic testing, and guidance based on your clinical history.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency for rs13405728 is approximately 0.40 in East Asian populations and approximately 0.25 in European populations.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs13405728 a diagnostic test for PCOS?
No, rs13405728 is not a diagnostic test. PCOS is a complex condition diagnosed by clinicians based on clinical criteria, such as hormone levels, ultrasound findings, and menstrual history, rather than genetic testing.
Why is this variant associated with PCOS in some populations but not others?
Genetic associations can differ between populations due to variations in genetic background, linkage disequilibrium, and environmental factors. This phenomenon is common in complex traits and highlights why findings in one ethnic group may not replicate in another.
What should I do if I have the 'higher-attention' genotype?
The 'higher-attention' label reflects that some research has linked this genotype to specific hormonal traits in certain studies. It does not indicate a medical problem, and you should not change any health behaviors based on this result; consult a doctor if you have specific health concerns.
Does this variant affect how I respond to fertility medication?
There is no established evidence that rs13405728 dictates response to fertility medications. Always discuss any concerns regarding medication dosing or treatment plans with your reproductive endocrinologist or pharmacist.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/19/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Intronic regulatory variant in LHCGR modulating luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin signaling sensitivity during human folliculogenesis.
Polymorphism in the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor gene linked to variation in ovarian sensitivity to gonadotropins during assisted reproduction.
A missense polymorphism (N291S) in the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor gene that influences receptor signaling efficiency and sensitivity to exogenous gonadotropins in ovarian stimulation protocols.
Regulatory SNP in LHCGR associated with ovarian responsiveness.
Luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor gene locus polymorphism linked to polycystic ovary syndrome susceptibility.
Activating missense mutation in LHCGR causing familial male-limited precocious puberty (testotoxicosis).