rs17307105: Understanding Your Y-Chromosome Lineage Marker
The variant rs17307105 is a specific genetic marker located on the Y chromosome. It serves as an ancestral informative lineage marker used by researchers to define sub-lineages within the Y-haplogroup R1a.
What each genotype means
Ancestral Y-chromosome lineage
This genotype represents the ancestral state of the rs17307105 marker on the Y chromosome. It is associated with specific sub-lineages within the R1a haplogroup, which are found primarily in male lineages of Eastern European and Central or South Asian ancestry.
This is the ancestral allele, found in a significant portion of individuals belonging to the R1a haplogroup.
Derived Y-chromosome lineage
This genotype represents the derived state of the rs17307105 marker, also known as L120, M516, or PF6236. It serves as a specific genetic marker used to define sub-lineages within the Y-haplogroup R1a, which is common in populations with Eastern European and Central or South Asian heritage.
The derived G allele has a global minor allele frequency of approximately 1.5%.
What is rs17307105?
The variant rs17307105 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) found on the human Y chromosome. Unlike most genetic markers that are inherited from both parents, the Y chromosome is passed exclusively from father to son. Because it does not undergo recombination in the same way as other chromosomes, the Y chromosome acts as a stable record of paternal ancestry. rs17307105 is one of many markers used in genetic genealogy and population genetics to track the migration and diversification of human paternal lineages over thousands of years. It is also known by alternative names in scientific literature, including L120, M516, and PF6236.
The Role of Y-Haplogroup R1a
rs17307105 is specifically associated with Y-haplogroup R1a. Haplogroups are large branches of the human family tree that share a common paternal ancestor. R1a is a major lineage that originated in Eurasia approximately 22,000 years ago. It is widely distributed across a vast geographic region, stretching from Scandinavia and Central Europe to Central Asia, Siberia, and South Asia. By identifying specific SNPs like rs17307105, researchers can further subdivide the broad R1a haplogroup into smaller, more specific branches. This helps scientists reconstruct prehistoric human mobility, such as the expansions that occurred during the Bronze Age, and understand how different populations across the Eurasian steppe and beyond are related through their paternal lines.
Evidence and Research Context
The evidence supporting the use of rs17307105 as a lineage marker is grounded in phylogenetic studies of the Y chromosome. In the context of genetic research, this variant is categorized as a trait marker rather than a clinical one. It does not have a known association with health conditions, disease risk, or medication response. Its primary value lies in its ability to provide information about deep ancestral history. Because it is an intergenic marker—meaning it sits in a region of the DNA that does not code for proteins—it is not expected to influence biological function. Current research focuses on its utility in population genetics and ancestry mapping, and it is not used for medical diagnostics or clinical decision-making.
What You Can Do With This Information
Information regarding your status for rs17307105 is strictly for genealogical and educational purposes. If you have received results for this variant through a direct-to-consumer genetic test, it can help you understand your placement within the R1a paternal tree. However, it is important to recognize that this marker does not provide information about your health, physical traits, or susceptibility to disease. Because this variant is not linked to any medical outcomes, there are no clinical actions to take based on your genotype. If you have questions about your ancestry, you may find it helpful to consult with a professional genetic genealogist or explore resources provided by reputable population genetics databases. Always remember that genetic markers for ancestry are distinct from those used in clinical medicine.
How common is this variant?
The variant is found primarily in male lineages of Eastern European and Central/South Asian ancestry, reflecting the historical distribution of the R1a haplogroup.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs17307105 linked to any diseases?
No. rs17307105 is an intergenic marker on the Y chromosome used for ancestry tracing and has no known association with health conditions or disease risk.
Can I use this to determine my health risks?
No. This variant is strictly an ancestral informative marker. It provides information about your paternal lineage history and cannot be used to predict health outcomes.
Why is this marker only found in men?
rs17307105 is located on the Y chromosome. Since the Y chromosome is passed from father to son, only biological males carry this marker.
What does it mean if I am R1a?
Being in haplogroup R1a means you share a common paternal ancestor with other men in this lineage. It is a common and ancient lineage found across Eurasia.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/16/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Y-chromosome lineage marker (PF2956) defining sub-branches within haplogroup G.
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