STK39 rs1356373: Understanding Genetic Associations and Blood Pressure
The rs1356373 variant is a common genetic change located within the STK39 gene. Researchers have investigated this variant for its potential association with blood pressure regulation and response to certain medications, though its clinical impact remains a subject of ongoing study.
What each genotype means
Typical genetic profile
This genotype represents the most common form of this variant observed in many populations. Research has investigated whether this variant influences blood pressure response to thiazide diuretics, but current evidence does not support a clinically significant association. Please discuss any concerns regarding your medication response or blood pressure management with your clinician or pharmacist.
This is a common genotype found across most global populations.
Typical genetic profile
This genotype represents a common variation at this location in the STK39 gene. While this gene has been studied for its potential role in blood pressure regulation and diuretic response, scientific studies have not established a clear or clinically relevant impact for this specific genotype. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your personal health and medication choices.
This genotype is frequently observed in diverse populations worldwide.
Typical genetic profile
This genotype is a common variation found in the general population. Although the STK39 gene is involved in pathways that regulate blood pressure, current research indicates that this specific variant does not have a proven, clinically significant effect on how individuals respond to thiazide diuretic medications. Please speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your blood pressure treatment.
This genotype is common and widely distributed across various ancestral groups.
What is rs1356373?
The variant rs1356373 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the STK39 gene on chromosome 2. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant is situated in a region of the genome that has been the focus of numerous studies investigating how genetic differences might influence physiological traits. Because it is a common variant, it is found frequently across diverse human populations. While the variant itself does not change the protein structure of the STK39 gene, researchers study it to determine if it influences how much of the STK39 protein is produced or how it functions within the body's complex regulatory systems.
The Role of the STK39 Gene
The STK39 gene provides instructions for making a protein known as SPAK (Ste20-related proline-alanine-rich kinase). This protein plays a critical role in the kidneys, specifically within the distal nephron, where it helps regulate the activity of cation-chloride cotransporters. These transporters are essential for maintaining the body's salt and water balance, which in turn influences blood pressure. By interacting with WNK kinases, the SPAK protein helps control how much sodium is reabsorbed or excreted by the kidneys. Because of this involvement in salt handling, the STK39 gene has been identified as a candidate for hypertension susceptibility, as variations in this pathway can theoretically alter blood pressure levels.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between STK39 variants and blood pressure has been a significant area of research. Early genome-wide association studies identified STK39 as a potential hypertension susceptibility gene, suggesting that certain variants might correlate with small, consistent changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, the evidence regarding its role in medication response is mixed. Specifically, researchers have investigated whether STK39 variants influence how patients respond to thiazide diuretics, a common class of blood pressure medication. While the biological pathway involving SPAK and salt transport is well-established, studies attempting to link specific STK39 SNPs to clinical outcomes with thiazide treatment have often yielded inconclusive results. Consequently, the evidence strength for using this variant to guide clinical decision-making is currently considered moderate to limited.
Population Frequency
The rs1356373 variant is classified as a common SNP, meaning it is widely distributed across various global populations. Genetic databases indicate that the variant is present at significant frequencies in both European and non-European ancestries. Because it is common, most individuals will carry at least one copy of the variant. Its high frequency suggests that it is a standard part of human genetic diversity rather than a rare mutation associated with a specific disease. While frequency data is robust, it is important to remember that the presence of a common variant does not necessarily imply a significant health effect for any single individual, as complex traits like blood pressure are influenced by a combination of many genetic factors, lifestyle, and environmental influences.
What You Can Do With This Information
It is important to understand that genetic information regarding rs1356373 is intended for educational purposes and should not be used to make personal medical decisions. While research explores the link between STK39 and blood pressure, this variant is not currently used in clinical practice to predict how a patient will respond to medication or to diagnose hypertension. If you are concerned about your blood pressure or the effectiveness of your current treatment, you should consult with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist. They are the only ones qualified to interpret your health history and determine the best course of action for your specific needs. Never change your medication dosage or stop taking prescribed treatments based on genetic test results without professional medical guidance.
How common is this variant?
The rs1356373 variant is common across all major ancestral populations, with its various genotypes appearing frequently in global genetic datasets.
Frequently asked questions
Does the rs1356373 variant cause high blood pressure?
No, this variant does not cause high blood pressure. Research suggests it may be associated with small variations in blood pressure levels, but hypertension is a complex condition influenced by many genes, diet, exercise, and other environmental factors.
Can I use this SNP to predict my response to blood pressure medication?
Currently, there is no clinical evidence to support using this SNP to predict how you will respond to blood pressure medication. While some studies have explored this, the results have been inconsistent and are not used in standard medical practice.
Should I get tested for the STK39 gene?
There is no clinical recommendation to get tested for this specific variant. Genetic testing for common variants like rs1356373 is generally for educational or research purposes and does not provide actionable medical information for your doctor.
What should I do if I have a 'higher-attention' genotype?
If you have received information about your genotype, remember that most common variants have a very small impact on health. Always discuss any concerns about your blood pressure or genetic results with your primary care physician.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/15/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Located within STK39, this variant has been linked in multiple genome-wide association screens to essential hypertension and blood pressure regulation.
Identified as a lead susceptibility locus associated with an increased risk of developing keratoconus in European cohorts.