PAX8 rs148765810: What Your Genotype Means
The rs148765810 variant is a common genetic marker located in the regulatory region of the PAX8 gene. It has been identified in large-scale genome-wide association studies as being linked to variations in habitual sleep duration and daytime napping frequency.
What each genotype means
Typical baseline sleep duration
You carry two copies of the C allele at this PAX8 regulatory variant. Large population studies suggest individuals with this genotype do not carry the minor allele linked with slightly shorter self-reported sleep or altered daytime napping tendencies. Because sleep traits are shaped by many lifestyle and genetic factors, this genetic finding represents only a subtle statistical tendency.
Carried by approximately 31% of individuals of European ancestry, with varying frequencies across other global populations.
Modest tendency toward shorter sleep
You carry one copy of the T allele near the PAX8 gene. In genome-wide association studies from cohorts like the UK Biobank, each copy of this allele has shown a limited statistical association with modest reductions in habitual sleep duration and slight differences in napping frequency. These observed effects are very small, ancestry-dependent, and influenced far more heavily by daily habits and environmental sleep factors.
Carried by roughly 49% of individuals of European ancestry, representing the most common genotype in this group.
Slightly shorter sleep duration tendency
You carry two copies of the T allele at this locus within the PAX8 regulatory region. Genome-wide analyses have linked this genotype to a slight statistical tendency toward shorter average nighttime sleep duration and minor variations in napping habits. This association reflects a small shift in population averages and does not cause or diagnose any sleep disorder.
Carried by approximately 19% to 20% of people of European ancestry.
Understanding the Variant and Its Location
The variant rs148765810 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated on chromosome 2. It is located within a regulatory region near the PAX8 gene. In genomics, regulatory regions are segments of DNA that act as control switches, influencing how and when a nearby gene is turned on or off. Because this SNP is intergenic—meaning it lies between genes rather than within the protein-coding sequence itself—it is thought to influence sleep traits by modulating the expression levels of the PAX8 gene rather than by altering the structure of the protein it produces. Researchers often study these non-coding variants to understand the complex genetic architecture that underlies common human behaviors, such as how long an individual typically sleeps.
The Role of the PAX8 Gene
The PAX8 gene encodes a transcription factor, which is a protein that binds to specific DNA sequences to regulate the transcription of other genes. PAX8 is widely recognized for its essential role in the development of the thyroid gland, where it helps guide the formation of thyroxine-producing cells. Beyond the thyroid, PAX8 is expressed in various other tissues, and its regulatory influence is broad. While its primary clinical significance is tied to thyroid development, its presence in the brain and other systems has led researchers to investigate its potential role in neurological and behavioral processes. The association between the PAX8 locus and sleep duration suggests that this transcription factor may play a role in the biological pathways that govern circadian rhythms or the homeostatic drive for sleep.
Research Associations and Evidence Strength
Large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS), particularly those utilizing data from the UK Biobank, have consistently identified variants near the PAX8 gene as being associated with self-reported sleep duration. While these studies have reached genome-wide significance, the evidence for any single variant, including rs148765810, remains limited in terms of clinical utility. The observed effects are typically modest, often accounting for only a few minutes of difference in nightly sleep duration per allele. Furthermore, sleep is a complex, polygenic trait influenced by hundreds of genetic variants, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Consequently, while the statistical association is robust in large cohorts, it is not a diagnostic tool and cannot predict an individual's specific sleep patterns or requirements.
Population Frequency and Interpretation
The rs148765810 variant is considered common, with a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.44 in European populations. This means that a significant portion of the population carries at least one copy of the variant. Because it is so prevalent, it is considered a normal part of human genetic diversity rather than a rare mutation. When interpreting this information, it is important to remember that genetic associations are based on population-level averages. Having a specific genotype does not guarantee a particular sleep phenotype. Factors such as work schedules, stress, age, and underlying health conditions often have a much larger impact on sleep quality and duration than any single genetic variant. This information is intended for educational purposes and should not be used to make health decisions.
What You Can and Cannot Do With This Information
Understanding your genetic markers can be an interesting way to engage with the science of human biology, but it is important to maintain realistic expectations. You cannot use this information to diagnose a sleep disorder or to determine your 'ideal' amount of sleep. If you are experiencing persistent sleep difficulties, such as insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness, you should consult a healthcare professional. They can provide evidence-based assessments and treatments that are far more effective than genetic testing for sleep traits. Genetic data should never be used to justify ignoring clinical symptoms or to alter medical treatments. Always discuss any concerns about your health or sleep habits with a qualified clinician who can evaluate your overall health profile.
How common is this variant?
The variant is common, with a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.44 in European populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does this variant mean I have a sleep disorder?
No. This variant is associated with normal variations in sleep duration within the general population and is not a diagnostic marker for any sleep disorder.
Can I use this to determine how much sleep I need?
No. Sleep needs are highly individual and influenced by many factors. Genetic variants like this only explain a very small fraction of the variance in sleep duration.
Is this variant linked to thyroid health?
While the PAX8 gene is critical for thyroid development, the variants associated with sleep duration are typically located in regulatory regions and are not known to cause thyroid disease.
Should I change my sleep habits based on my genotype?
No. You should focus on healthy sleep hygiene practices recommended by sleep experts. Genetic results should not dictate your lifestyle or medical choices.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/18/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This variant is a well-replicated genome-wide significant locus associated with habitual sleep duration, including both short and long sleep phenotypes.
This intergenic variant near the PAX8 gene is a well-replicated genetic marker associated with variations in habitual sleep duration.
An intergenic variant near PAX8 identified in large-scale GWAS meta-analyses as a locus influencing habitual sleep duration, with evidence suggesting potential regulatory effects on nearby transcripts.
A variant near the PAX8 locus associated with self-reported sleep duration in large population-based cohorts.
This intergenic variant near the PAX8 gene is associated with small, incremental changes in habitual sleep duration.
A genome-wide significant variant located upstream of the PAX8 transcription factor associated with habitual sleep duration.