rs17315680: Understanding This Y-Chromosomal Ancestral Marker
The variant rs17315680 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located on the human Y chromosome. It serves as a genetic marker used by researchers and genealogists to distinguish specific paternal lineages within the I2a2 haplogroup.
What each genotype means
Y-chromosomal haplogroup marker
This genotype is a specific marker on the Y chromosome used to identify certain paternal lineages. It is associated with the classification of Y-chromosomal haplogroup I2a2, which helps trace ancestral migration patterns.
This genotype is found in a small subset of the population, consistent with the global minor allele frequency of approximately 0.006897.
Y-chromosomal haplogroup marker
This genotype represents a variation on the Y chromosome used in genealogical research to distinguish specific paternal haplogroups. Because the Y chromosome is haploid in males, this combination is typically observed in the context of population-level data or specific testing scenarios.
This genotype is rare, reflecting the low frequency of the variant across global populations.
Y-chromosomal haplogroup marker
This genotype is a marker on the Y chromosome used to categorize paternal ancestry. It serves as a tool for researchers and individuals interested in deep ancestral history to identify specific branches of the human Y-chromosome tree.
This genotype is observed at a low frequency, consistent with the reported minor allele frequency for this variant.
What is rs17315680?
The variant rs17315680 is a specific location on the Y chromosome, identified at position 16,635,613 (GRCh38). Unlike variants found on autosomes, which are inherited from both parents, Y-chromosomal SNPs are passed exclusively from father to son. This makes them powerful tools for tracing paternal ancestry. In the scientific community, rs17315680 is recognized as a marker that helps define and differentiate branches of the Y-DNA haplogroup tree. It is also known by alternative names such as P214, PF3856, and S33. Because it is located in a non-coding, intergenic region of the Y chromosome, it does not function as a gene and does not produce a protein. Instead, its primary value lies in its role as a stable, inherited signpost that allows geneticists to categorize human paternal lineages into distinct groups based on shared ancestral history.
Research and Ancestral Associations
Research into rs17315680 is primarily focused on population genetics and human migration history rather than clinical health outcomes. Studies, such as those published in the context of Y-chromosome phylogeny, utilize this SNP to map the expansion of haplogroup I2a2. Because the Y chromosome does not undergo recombination in the same way as other chromosomes, these markers remain relatively stable over thousands of years, allowing scientists to reconstruct the deep ancestral paths of human populations. The evidence supporting its use as a phylogenetic marker is considered moderate, as it is a standard tool in genealogical DNA testing and anthropological research. It is important to note that this variant is not associated with any known medical conditions or disease risks. Its significance is strictly limited to the study of paternal descent and the classification of Y-DNA haplogroups, providing a window into the historical movements of human groups across different geographic regions.
Understanding Your Results
If you encounter rs17315680 in a genetic report, it is likely because you have participated in a genealogical DNA test designed to explore your paternal ancestry. Because this variant is not a gene and has no known impact on health, it cannot be used to predict medical outcomes, diagnose conditions, or inform treatment decisions. It is purely an ancestral marker. Readers should understand that genetic genealogy results are intended for educational and historical interest. If you have questions about your health or potential genetic risks, these should be directed to a qualified healthcare provider or a genetic counselor who can interpret clinical data. You cannot 'do' anything with this information in a medical sense; it is simply a piece of data that helps place your paternal line within the broader context of human history. Always rely on professional medical advice for health-related concerns rather than information derived from ancestral SNP markers.
How common is this variant?
The global minor allele frequency (GMAF) for rs17315680 is approximately 0.006897. Its frequency varies significantly depending on the specific population's ancestral history and the prevalence of the I2a2 haplogroup within that group.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs17315680 linked to any diseases?
No, rs17315680 is an intergenic Y-chromosomal marker used for ancestry tracing. It is not associated with any known medical conditions or health risks.
Can I use this SNP to determine my health risks?
No. This variant is not a gene and does not influence biological function. It is strictly used for genealogical purposes to identify paternal lineages.
Why is this variant only found in men?
This variant is located on the Y chromosome. Since the Y chromosome is typically only present in biological males, this marker is only relevant for tracing paternal ancestry.
What does it mean if I don't have this variant?
Not having this variant simply means your paternal lineage does not belong to the specific subclade defined by this marker. It does not imply anything about your health or general ancestry.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/25/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs17315680?
Upload a raw DNA file from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, or FamilyTreeDNA and see this variant — plus thousands more — interpreted in your full report.
Get my report — $29Related variants
This Y-chromosome SNP is a high-confidence marker used to define specific clades within Haplogroup I, aiding in paternal lineage tracing.
This variant, also known as P30, serves as a reliable indicator for the I1 subclade of Y-DNA haplogroup I.
This Y-chromosome SNP is a marker for the I1 haplogroup, distinguishing it from the ancestral I haplogroup.
This Y-chromosome SNP is used to distinguish specific Y-DNA haplogroups, specifically identifying Haplogroup S.
Defines the APOL1 G2 allele (two-amino-acid deletion N388_Y389del) that arose in Sub-Saharan Africa providing protection against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness while conferring increased risk of chronic kidney disease.
This Y-chromosome SNP serves as a marker for distinguishing specific human haplogroups.