USF1 rs3737787: Understanding Your Lipid Profile Associations
The rs3737787 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located in the USF1 gene. Research suggests it may be associated with variations in serum lipid levels, such as triglycerides and cholesterol, in diverse populations.
What each genotype means
No observed clinical association
Research investigating this variant in the context of ovarian cancer chemotherapy response found no significant difference in outcomes for individuals with this genotype. Current evidence does not suggest this specific genetic marker influences treatment efficacy or safety.
The frequency of this genotype is not widely documented in public genomic databases.
No observed clinical association
Research investigating this variant in the context of ovarian cancer chemotherapy response found no significant difference in outcomes for individuals with this genotype. Current evidence does not suggest this specific genetic marker influences treatment efficacy or safety.
The frequency of this genotype is not widely documented in public genomic databases.
No observed clinical association
Research investigating this variant in the context of ovarian cancer chemotherapy response found no significant difference in outcomes for individuals with this genotype. Current evidence does not suggest this specific genetic marker influences treatment efficacy or safety.
The frequency of this genotype is not widely documented in public genomic databases.
What is rs3737787?
The variant rs3737787 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated within the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of the Upstream Stimulatory Factor 1 (USF1) gene. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence. The 3'UTR is a segment of messenger RNA that follows the coding region of a gene and plays a critical role in regulating gene expression, including the stability and translation of the mRNA. Because this variant is located in a regulatory region, researchers have hypothesized that it might influence how much USF1 protein is produced, though the exact functional mechanism remains a subject of ongoing scientific investigation. Understanding such variants helps scientists map the complex landscape of how non-coding DNA contributes to human physiological traits.
The Role of the USF1 Gene
The USF1 gene encodes a transcription factor, which is a protein that binds to specific DNA sequences to control the rate of gene transcription. Transcription factors act as molecular switches, turning genes on or off to regulate various biological processes. USF1 is particularly well-known for its involvement in the regulation of genes related to lipid and glucose metabolism. By influencing the expression of these target genes, USF1 helps maintain metabolic homeostasis. Because of its central role in these pathways, variations in or near the USF1 gene are frequently studied in the context of metabolic conditions, including dyslipidemia—a condition characterized by abnormal levels of lipids like cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood—and other cardiovascular-related traits.
Research and Associations
Scientific studies have investigated rs3737787 across various ethnic groups, including populations in Mexico, China, and Nigeria. Research has observed associations between this variant and serum lipid profiles, such as total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. For instance, some studies have suggested that carriers of the T allele might exhibit different lipid profiles compared to non-carriers, potentially influencing the risk of conditions like early-onset coronary artery disease or familial combined hyperlipidemia. However, it is important to note that the strength of this evidence is considered limited and often population-specific. Results have been inconsistent across different studies, and researchers have not yet definitively determined whether this SNP directly alters USF1 expression levels. Consequently, while these associations are statistically significant in specific cohorts, they do not establish a universal clinical rule.
Population Frequency
The frequency of the rs3737787 variant varies significantly across different ancestral backgrounds. Studies have reported different minor allele frequencies (MAF) depending on the population studied, indicating that the distribution of the C and T alleles is not uniform globally. For example, some research in specific cohorts has identified the T allele at frequencies around 10% to 20%, while other studies may show different patterns. Because the variant's prevalence is highly dependent on ancestry, findings from one population cannot be automatically generalized to another. This highlights the importance of diversity in genetic research to ensure that findings are robust and applicable across the global human population.
What This Means for You
If you have information about your rs3737787 genotype, it is important to view it as a single piece of a much larger, complex puzzle. Genetic variants like this are often associated with small changes in biological traits and do not act in isolation; they interact with other genes, lifestyle factors, diet, and environment. This information is intended for educational purposes and should not be used to diagnose or predict personal health outcomes. If you are concerned about your lipid levels or cardiovascular health, the most effective approach is to consult with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your overall health, family history, and clinical test results to provide personalized guidance. Never make changes to your diet, exercise, or medication regimen based on genetic data without first discussing it with your doctor or a qualified pharmacist.
How common is this variant?
The frequency of the rs3737787 variant is population-specific, with the minor allele frequency typically observed above 5% in several studied cohorts.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs3737787 a diagnostic test for heart disease?
No, rs3737787 is not a diagnostic test. It is a genetic variant that has been studied for its statistical association with lipid levels, but it cannot predict or diagnose heart disease on its own.
Should I change my diet based on my rs3737787 genotype?
You should not change your diet based on this genetic variant. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your nutrition plan.
Does this variant mean I have high cholesterol?
Not necessarily. While some studies associate this variant with lipid levels, your actual cholesterol levels are determined by a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environment. A blood test from your doctor is the only way to know your current lipid status.
Where can I find more information on USF1?
You can search for the USF1 gene on resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the NCBI Gene database. These sites provide comprehensive, peer-reviewed information on gene functions and their roles in human health.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/20/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This variant is a rare, uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance in major databases.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This rsID is not currently recognized as a valid, stable SNP in major public databases like dbSNP or Ensembl.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.