rs3849410: Understanding the Genetic Link to Chronic Pain
The genetic variant rs3849410 is a single-nucleotide polymorphism located in an intergenic region of the human genome. Recent large-scale research has identified this variant as a genome-wide significant locus associated with the experience of chronic pain.
What each genotype means
Baseline chronic pain risk
This genotype represents the baseline state for this genetic location. Research indicates that this specific variant is associated with chronic pain susceptibility, but having this genotype does not imply a specific clinical outcome. Chronic pain is a complex condition influenced by many genetic and environmental factors.
The frequency of this genotype varies significantly across different ancestral populations.
Potential chronic pain association
This genotype includes one copy of the variant identified in large-scale studies as a genome-wide significant locus for chronic pain. While this variant has been statistically linked to pain traits in multi-ancestral research, it is only one of many factors that contribute to an individual's overall risk. This finding is based on population-level associations and cannot predict individual health outcomes.
The frequency of this genotype varies significantly across different ancestral populations.
Increased chronic pain association
This genotype carries two copies of the variant identified in large-scale studies as a genome-wide significant locus for chronic pain. Statistical evidence suggests this variant is associated with chronic pain, though the effect size is modest and influenced by broader genetic and environmental contexts. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute a medical diagnosis or risk assessment.
The frequency of this genotype varies significantly across different ancestral populations.
What is rs3849410?
The variant rs3849410 is a specific position in the human DNA sequence where individuals may differ by a single nucleotide. It is classified as an intergenic variant, meaning it resides in the non-coding DNA located between genes rather than within a gene that codes for a protein. Because it is intergenic, its biological function is not immediately obvious, as it does not directly alter the structure of a protein. Instead, researchers investigate whether such variants might influence how nearby genes are regulated or expressed. In the context of modern genomics, rs3849410 has been highlighted as a point of interest in studies examining the complex, polygenic nature of chronic pain, where many small genetic variations contribute to an individual's overall susceptibility to a trait.
Research and Chronic Pain Associations
The association between rs3849410 and chronic pain was identified through a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) utilizing data from the All of Us Research Program. This study analyzed hundreds of thousands of participants across six different genetic ancestries to better understand the genetic architecture of pain. The variant reached genome-wide significance in the cross-ancestral meta-analysis, as well as in specific analyses of European ancestry individuals and European females. While these statistical findings are robust within the context of the study, it is important to note that the evidence strength remains limited regarding the specific biological mechanism. Chronic pain is a multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Therefore, while rs3849410 is a statistically significant marker, it is only one piece of a much larger and more complex puzzle.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have encountered rs3849410 in your genetic data, it is essential to understand that this information is for educational purposes only. A genetic association does not mean that a person will develop chronic pain, nor does it explain the cause of pain in any individual. Because the variant is intergenic and the evidence is based on population-level statistics, it cannot be used to predict personal health outcomes or diagnose medical conditions. If you are experiencing chronic pain, you should consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and appropriate management strategies. Never make changes to your health regimen or medication based on genetic reports without first speaking to your doctor or a qualified pharmacist. Genetic data provides a window into population trends, but it does not replace clinical evaluation.
How common is this variant?
The frequency of the alleles for rs3849410 is known to be variable across different ancestral groups, reflecting the diverse genetic backgrounds included in large-scale research studies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use rs3849410 to predict if I will have chronic pain?
No. This variant is associated with chronic pain at a population level, but it is not a diagnostic tool. Chronic pain is influenced by many factors, and this SNP alone cannot predict your personal risk.
What does it mean that this variant is intergenic?
Being intergenic means the variant is located in the DNA between genes. It does not code for a protein, so its effects are likely related to how genes are turned on or off in specific tissues.
Is this variant linked to specific pain medications?
There is currently no evidence in the literature linking rs3849410 to specific responses to pain medications. Always discuss medication choices and dosing with your clinician or pharmacist.
Why is the evidence strength for this variant considered limited?
Evidence is considered limited because, while the statistical association is strong in large studies, the biological mechanism remains unknown. Further research is needed to understand how this variant might influence pain pathways.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/3/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs3849410?
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 variant is a significant risk factor for the development of Gaucher disease and Parkinson's disease.
This variant is associated with cystic fibrosis, affecting chloride channel function in epithelial cells.
This variant is a known pathogenic mutation contributing to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome.
This pathogenic variant is strongly associated with an increased lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
A polymorphism identified as a predictive biomarker for clopidogrel response in a multi-gene NGS panel study.
A variant significantly associated with clopidogrel responsiveness in diverse populations, highlighting the importance of transethnic genetic studies.