rs341909772: Understanding This Reproductive Variant in Pigs
The genetic variant rs341909772 is an intergenic single nucleotide polymorphism primarily studied within Large White pig populations. Research has identified statistical associations between specific genotypes at this location and variations in reproductive traits, such as the number of piglets born alive.
What each genotype means
Typical reproductive profile
This genotype represents the alternative state for this variant. Current research in Large White pig populations suggests that this genotype does not provide the same association with increased litter size and healthy births as the TT genotype.
Frequency data for this specific variant is variable and not well-established across human populations.
Intermediate reproductive profile
This heterozygous genotype contains one copy of each allele. Its specific impact on reproductive traits remains limited in the literature, and it is unclear if it confers the same benefits observed in the homozygous TT state.
Frequency data for this specific variant is variable and not well-established across human populations.
Associated with increased litter size
In Large White pig populations, this genotype is associated with an increased number of piglets born alive and healthy births. This association is specific to porcine reproductive studies and has not been established as a functional or clinical marker in humans.
Frequency data for this specific variant is variable and not well-established across human populations.
What is rs341909772?
A single nucleotide polymorphism, or SNP, is a variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals. The variant rs341909772 is located in an intergenic region, meaning it sits in the DNA sequence between known protein-coding genes. Because it is not located within a gene that provides instructions for making a protein, its biological function is not immediately obvious. Instead, researchers often study such variants to see if they act as markers that are inherited alongside other functional genetic changes. In the context of agricultural genomics, identifying these markers helps scientists understand the complex genetic architecture that influences specific traits in livestock, such as fertility and reproductive performance in commercial breeding populations.
Research and Reproductive Associations
Current research into rs341909772 has focused on its role in the reproductive success of Large White pigs. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are used to scan the genomes of large populations to find statistical links between specific DNA variants and observable traits. In studies involving Large White sows, the TT genotype at this SNP has been statistically associated with an increase in the number of piglets born alive and the number of healthy births compared to the CC genotype. It is important to note that while these associations are statistically significant within the studied cohorts, the evidence remains limited. Reproductive traits in livestock are polygenic, meaning they are influenced by many different genes and environmental factors working in concert, rather than a single variant alone.
Population Frequency and Variability
The frequency of the alleles at rs341909772 is variable and depends heavily on the specific breeding population being analyzed. In agricultural genomics, allele frequencies can shift significantly due to selective breeding practices, where certain traits are prioritized over generations. Because this variant has been identified primarily in specific Large White pig herds, its prevalence in other pig breeds or wild boar populations may differ substantially. Genomic studies often report that the distribution of such variants is not uniform across all lineages, reflecting the diverse genetic history of domestic swine. Researchers continue to monitor these frequencies to better understand how selection pressure influences the genetic diversity of traits related to litter size and piglet survival.
Interpreting Genetic Information
For those interested in genomics, it is essential to understand that a statistical association is not the same as a direct cause. The presence of a specific genotype at rs341909772 does not guarantee a specific outcome, as biological traits are the result of complex interactions between genetics, nutrition, management, and environmental conditions. This information is intended for educational purposes to illustrate how researchers identify potential genetic markers in livestock. It is not a tool for making individual breeding decisions or predicting outcomes for a single animal. If you are involved in animal husbandry or breeding, consult with a professional geneticist or agricultural specialist who can interpret genomic data within the context of your specific breeding program and management goals.
How common is this variant?
The frequency of this variant is variable across different Large White pig populations, often influenced by specific breeding and selection histories.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs341909772 found in humans?
No, rs341909772 is a variant identified in the porcine (pig) genome. It is specific to research regarding swine reproductive traits.
Does this SNP guarantee larger litter sizes?
No. Genetic associations are statistical observations in a population and do not guarantee specific outcomes for individual animals. Litter size is influenced by many genetic and environmental factors.
What does 'intergenic' mean?
An intergenic region is a stretch of DNA located between genes. These regions do not code for proteins but may contain regulatory elements that control how genes are expressed.
Where can I find more information on pig genomics?
You can explore resources like the PigQTLdb or search academic databases like PubMed for genome-wide association studies related to swine reproductive traits.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 11/2/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs341909772?
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 lead variant has been identified in large-scale genome-wide association studies as being associated with female infertility phenotypes.
This variant in the estrogen receptor 1 gene is associated with altered protein secondary structure and potential susceptibility to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
This variant in the SREBF1 gene is linked to fertility traits and the timing of artificial insemination in cattle.
This variant is in high linkage disequilibrium with nonsynonymous SNPs in the CRTC2 gene and is associated with human reproductive behavior traits like age at first birth.
This missense variant (p.Ser20Ile) is linked to spermatogenic impairment in males.
This missense variant in the FSHB gene is associated with spermatogenic impairment and abnormal sperm counts.