NFE2L2 rs35652124: Understanding Your Genetic Variant
The rs35652124 variant is a single-nucleotide polymorphism located in the regulatory region of the NFE2L2 gene. It is associated with the body's ability to regulate the transcription of cytoprotective antioxidant genes following exposure to environmental stressors like ultraviolet light.
What each genotype means
Typical antioxidant response
This genotype represents the most common form of the NFE2L2 promoter region. Research into this variant is ongoing and results regarding its influence on antioxidant response or disease risk are often contradictory or limited to specific populations. It is not considered a diagnostic marker for any health condition.
This is the most frequent genotype globally, though exact percentages vary significantly by ancestral background.
Varied antioxidant response potential
Carrying one copy of the T allele may influence how the NRF2 protein regulates antioxidant defense pathways, though scientific evidence remains mixed. Some studies have explored associations between this variant and susceptibility to certain inflammatory or metabolic conditions, but these findings are not consistent across all populations. This genotype does not provide a definitive health assessment.
This heterozygous genotype is common, appearing in a significant portion of the global population.
Potential altered antioxidant regulation
Individuals with this genotype carry two copies of the T allele, which some research suggests may alter the transcriptional activity of the NRF2 gene. While some studies have linked this variant to differences in oxidative stress responses or disease outcomes, the evidence is limited and sometimes conflicting. This result should not be used to predict specific health outcomes or disease risk.
This genotype is less common than the C/C or C/T configurations, with frequencies varying by geographic and ancestral origin.
What is the rs35652124 Variant?
The rs35652124 variant is a specific change in the DNA sequence within the NFE2L2 gene, which is located on chromosome 2. In genetics, a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) like this represents a variation at a single position in the DNA building blocks. This particular SNP is situated in the promoter region of the gene, which acts as a control switch for how much of the NRF2 protein is produced. Because it sits in a regulatory area rather than the protein-coding sequence itself, it is thought to influence the efficiency or timing of gene activation rather than changing the structure of the protein produced. Researchers study these regulatory variants to understand why individuals may have different baseline levels of cellular defense mechanisms when exposed to external stressors.
The Role of the NFE2L2 Gene
The NFE2L2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called NRF2. This protein is widely recognized as a master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response. Under normal, stable conditions, NRF2 is kept at low levels in the cell by a protein called KEAP1, which marks it for degradation. However, when a cell experiences oxidative stress—such as damage from ultraviolet radiation or chemical toxins—the interaction between NRF2 and KEAP1 is disrupted. This allows NRF2 to accumulate and travel into the cell's nucleus. Once inside, it binds to specific DNA sequences known as antioxidant response elements (AREs). This binding triggers the expression of a suite of protective genes that help the cell neutralize harmful molecules, repair damage, and maintain homeostasis.
Research and Evidence Strength
Scientific research into rs35652124 is currently considered to have limited evidence regarding its clinical impact. Some studies have investigated whether this variant influences susceptibility to conditions involving oxidative stress, such as diabetes-related complications or responses to environmental damage. However, published reports are often contradictory, and the functional significance of the variant remains a subject of ongoing debate in the scientific community. Because the NRF2 pathway is complex and involves many interacting proteins, it is difficult to isolate the effect of a single SNP on overall health outcomes. Current findings should be viewed as preliminary, as they often rely on small sample sizes or specific populations, and they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship for individual health.
Population Frequency
The rs35652124 variant is relatively common across various global populations. Data indicates that the minor allele frequency typically ranges between 0.20 and 0.35, meaning that a significant portion of the human population carries at least one copy of the variant allele. This high frequency suggests that the variant is a normal part of human genetic diversity rather than a rare mutation. Because it is so widespread, researchers often use it as a reference point when studying how different genetic backgrounds might influence the body's stress response. However, frequency can vary significantly depending on ancestral background, and large-scale genomic databases continue to refine these estimates as more diverse populations are sequenced.
What You Can Do With This Information
It is important to understand that having a specific genotype for rs35652124 does not provide a medical diagnosis or a definitive prediction of your health. Genetic variants are only one piece of a much larger puzzle that includes your environment, lifestyle, and other genetic factors. You cannot use this information to determine your risk for specific diseases or to guide medical treatment. If you are concerned about your skin health, antioxidant intake, or how your body responds to environmental stress, the best approach is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice based on your clinical history and physical examination, which are far more reliable indicators of health than a single genetic marker.
How common is this variant?
The rs35652124 variant has a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.20–0.35 across global populations, making it a common genetic variation.
Frequently asked questions
Does rs35652124 mean I have a disease?
No, this variant is a common genetic polymorphism found in healthy individuals. It is not a diagnostic marker for any disease.
Can I change my NRF2 activity through diet?
Many dietary compounds, such as those found in cruciferous vegetables, are studied for their potential to influence the NRF2 pathway. However, you should discuss any significant dietary changes with a nutritionist or doctor.
Is this variant related to skin cancer risk?
While NRF2 is involved in the cellular response to UV exposure, there is no definitive evidence that this specific SNP significantly alters skin cancer risk. Always follow standard sun safety guidelines regardless of your genotype.
Where can I find more information on NFE2L2?
You can explore resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the NCBI Gene database for comprehensive, peer-reviewed information on the NFE2L2 gene and its functions.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/26/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This promoter regulatory variant in the NFE2L2 gene modulates antioxidant response pathway activity and is linked to ferroptosis resistance and oxidative stress-related phenotypes.
A promoter variant that modulates NRF2 gene expression, impacting the body's ability to manage oxidative stress through dietary support.
This SNP is located in the promoter region of the NRF2 gene and influences the expression levels of enzymes involved in the cellular antioxidant response.