rs4760489: Understanding Genetic Associations with Chronic Pain
The genetic variant rs4760489 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that has been identified in large-scale research studies as having a statistical association with chronic pain. It is located in an intergenic region, meaning it does not sit within a known protein-coding gene.
What each genotype means
Baseline chronic pain risk
This genotype represents the common baseline state for this genetic locus. Research indicates this variant is associated with chronic pain susceptibility in individuals of European ancestry, though the specific biological mechanism remains under investigation. This finding is based on statistical associations and should not be used to predict individual health outcomes.
This is a common genotype found in European populations.
Increased chronic pain association
Individuals with this genotype carry one copy of the variant associated with chronic pain in large-scale genome-wide association studies. While this locus has reached genome-wide significance for chronic pain in European ancestry cohorts, the effect size is modest and influenced by many other genetic and environmental factors. Please consult with a healthcare professional regarding any concerns about pain management.
This heterozygous genotype is frequently observed in individuals of European ancestry.
Elevated chronic pain association
This genotype corresponds to the variant identified in research as having a statistically significant association with chronic pain in European populations. This association is based on population-level data and does not imply a direct cause of pain for any specific individual. Discuss any persistent pain symptoms with your clinician to develop an appropriate care plan.
This genotype is present at a notable frequency within European ancestry populations.
What is rs4760489?
A single nucleotide polymorphism, or SNP, is a variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals. The variant rs4760489 represents a specific location in the human genome where different people may carry different DNA bases. Because this SNP is located in an intergenic region—the stretches of DNA situated between genes—it does not directly code for a protein. Instead, researchers study such variants to see if they might influence how nearby genes are regulated or expressed. In the context of complex traits like chronic pain, these variants are often identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), which scan the entire genome to find statistical correlations between specific DNA markers and health-related outcomes. It is important to note that a statistical association does not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship, as many genetic and environmental factors contribute to the experience of pain.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between rs4760489 and chronic pain has been highlighted in studies examining the genetic architecture of pain-related conditions. Genome-wide association studies have identified this locus as reaching genome-wide significance in specific cohorts, particularly those of European ancestry. However, the evidence strength for this specific variant is considered limited. Chronic pain is a highly complex, polygenic trait, meaning it is influenced by the cumulative effect of many different genetic variants, each contributing a small amount to the overall risk, alongside significant environmental and lifestyle factors. Because pain is subjective and can be defined in various ways—such as back pain, widespread pain, or multisite pain—different studies may yield varying results depending on how they define the phenotype. Consequently, while rs4760489 is a marker of interest in pain research, it is not a diagnostic tool and cannot predict whether an individual will experience chronic pain.
Interpreting Your Results
If you have received information about your genotype for rs4760489, it is essential to understand that this information is for educational purposes only. Genetic associations identified in research studies describe trends across large populations, not individual health outcomes. You cannot use this information to diagnose a condition, predict future health, or determine a treatment plan. Chronic pain is a multifaceted condition influenced by physical health, mental well-being, lifestyle, and environment. If you are experiencing pain, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Never make changes to your medical care or medication regimen based on genetic data without first discussing it with your clinician or pharmacist. Genetic markers like rs4760489 are tools for scientific discovery, not clinical decision-making.
How common is this variant?
The rs4760489 variant is common in European populations, where the different genotypes are distributed throughout the population.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use rs4760489 to predict if I will get chronic pain?
No. Genetic variants like rs4760489 only show small statistical associations in large groups of people and cannot predict individual health outcomes. Chronic pain is influenced by many factors, including environment, lifestyle, and other genetic markers.
What does it mean that rs4760489 is intergenic?
Being intergenic means the variant is located in the DNA between genes rather than inside a gene that codes for a protein. These regions often contain regulatory elements that help control how genes are turned on or off.
Is this variant a diagnostic test for pain?
No, this is not a diagnostic test. Genetic associations are used by researchers to understand the biological pathways of pain, but they are not used by doctors to diagnose or treat patients.
Should I change my medication based on this result?
Absolutely not. You should never change your medication or treatment plan based on genetic information without consulting your doctor or pharmacist first.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/3/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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