MSRA rs4306591: Understanding This Obesity-Associated Variant
The rs4306591 variant is a non-coding genetic marker located within the MSRA gene region. It has been identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as being linked to various obesity-related anthropometric traits and metabolic parameters.
What each genotype means
Typical metabolic risk profile
Individuals with the CC genotype carry two copies of the more common reference allele at this MSRA non-coding locus. Genome-wide association studies have generally linked this genotype to baseline population-average tendencies for body mass index and adiposity parameters. Given that the evidence for this specific locus is limited and effect sizes in multi-factorial traits are small, this genotype does not determine individual body weight.
Carried by approximately 45% to 55% of individuals across diverse worldwide ancestries according to global reference databases such as gnomAD and 1000 Genomes.
Slightly altered metabolic association
Individuals with the CT genotype carry one copy of the T alternative allele near the MSRA gene. In some genome-wide association studies, the T allele has been modestly correlated with slight shifts in obesity-related anthropometric markers, though findings vary across populations and age groups. Because the current published evidence strength is limited, lifestyle and overall polygenic background remain the predominant determinants of metabolic traits.
Carried by roughly 35% to 45% of individuals across most major continental populations.
Altered metabolic association
Individuals with the TT genotype carry two copies of the alternative T allele at the rs4306591 locus. Some association studies have evaluated this genotype for statistical relationships with body mass index and related metabolic parameters, showing weak or mixed evidence across different ancestries. This non-coding variant provides only limited genetic insight and should not be used on its own to assess metabolic health or weight status.
Carried by approximately 5% to 15% of individuals globally, with varying prevalence across specific ancestral cohorts.
What is rs4306591?
The rs4306591 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), which is a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence. This specific SNP is classified as a non-coding variant, meaning it is located in a region of the genome that does not provide instructions for making proteins. Instead, such variants are often situated in regulatory regions that may influence how nearby genes are expressed or controlled. In the case of rs4306591, it is positioned within or near the MSRA gene. Because it is non-coding, it does not alter the structure of the MSRA protein itself, but researchers study it to determine if it affects the regulation of the gene or other neighboring genomic elements. It is cataloged in public databases as a marker of interest for researchers investigating the complex genetic architecture underlying human body composition and metabolic health.
The Role of the MSRA Gene
The MSRA gene encodes the enzyme methionine sulfoxide reductase A. This enzyme plays a critical role in cellular protection by repairing proteins that have been damaged by oxidative stress. Specifically, it reduces methionine sulfoxide back to methionine, a process essential for maintaining protein function and preventing the accumulation of damaged proteins within cells. Oxidative stress is a known factor in various metabolic processes, and the ability of cells to manage this stress is vital for overall health. While the MSRA gene is well-characterized for its role in protein repair, the association between the rs4306591 variant and this gene is primarily statistical. Researchers are interested in whether the presence of this variant might correlate with differences in how the MSRA gene is regulated or expressed, potentially influencing metabolic pathways related to body weight and fat distribution.
Research Associations and Evidence Strength
The association between rs4306591 and obesity-related traits is derived from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). These studies scan the genomes of large populations to find statistical links between specific genetic variants and physical traits. For rs4306591, the evidence is currently considered limited. While GWAS have flagged this locus as being associated with anthropometric traits—such as body mass index (BMI) or waist circumference—and various metabolic parameters, these associations are often modest in effect size. It is important to note that a statistical association in a GWAS does not necessarily imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Many factors, including environmental influences, diet, physical activity, and the interplay of hundreds of other genetic variants, contribute to obesity and metabolic health. Consequently, the findings regarding rs4306591 should be viewed as part of a broader, ongoing effort to map the complex genetic landscape of human metabolism rather than as a definitive predictor of health outcomes.
Population Frequency
The rs4306591 variant is considered a common genetic marker. Data from large-scale reference populations, such as those found in the 1000 Genomes Project and gnomAD, indicate that the variant is present at a significant frequency across diverse ancestral groups. This high frequency is typical for many variants identified in GWAS, as common variants are often the primary focus of these large-scale studies. Because it is common, most individuals will carry at least one copy of the variant, and it is not restricted to any single ethnic or geographic population. The widespread distribution of this SNP underscores the complexity of genetic studies, as researchers must account for varying linkage disequilibrium patterns and allele frequencies across different global populations to ensure that findings are robust and reproducible.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
Understanding your genotype for rs4306591 is an exercise in exploring the current state of genomic science, but it is not a tool for medical diagnosis. Because the evidence linking this variant to specific health outcomes is limited and the effects are likely small, this information cannot be used to predict your personal risk for obesity or metabolic disease. Genetic markers are only one piece of a much larger puzzle that includes your lifestyle, environment, and overall medical history. You cannot change your genotype, but you can focus on evidence-based health behaviors such as maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity. If you have concerns about your weight, metabolic health, or family history, the most effective approach is to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on clinical assessments rather than individual genetic markers, which are currently best suited for research purposes rather than routine clinical decision-making.
How common is this variant?
The rs4306591 variant is a common allele found across diverse reference populations in the 1000 Genomes and gnomAD databases.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use rs4306591 to predict if I will become obese?
No. The association between this variant and obesity is statistical and limited in strength. Obesity is a complex condition influenced by many genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, and this single SNP cannot be used for individual risk prediction.
Is rs4306591 a 'bad' gene variant?
No. Genetic variants are neither inherently 'good' nor 'bad.' They are simply variations in the DNA sequence that have been identified through research as being statistically associated with certain traits in large populations.
Should I change my diet based on my rs4306591 genotype?
No. You should not make dietary or lifestyle changes based on this genetic variant. Always consult with a registered dietitian or your primary care physician for personalized health and nutrition advice.
Where can I find more information about MSRA?
You can find detailed information about the MSRA gene and its biological functions on resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Gene database.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/12/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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