MATN3 rs52826764: What Your Genotype Means
The rs52826764 variant is a specific change in the DNA sequence of the MATN3 gene. Scientific research has investigated this variant for its potential association with variations in human adult height.
What each genotype means
Common reference genotype
This is the most frequently observed genotype in population databases. It is considered the reference sequence and is not associated with specific clinical conditions or significant deviations in adult height.
This is the most common genotype found in the general population.
Heterozygous variant carrier
Individuals with this genotype carry one copy of the variant allele. Research into this specific SNP suggests it is a coding variant associated with variations in adult height, though it is classified as likely non-pathogenic in clinical databases.
The frequency of this heterozygous state varies by ancestry but is generally less common than the homozygous reference genotype.
Homozygous variant carrier
This genotype represents the homozygous state for the variant allele. While it has been studied in the context of adult height associations, it is currently categorized as likely non-pathogenic and is not considered a cause of clinical disease.
This is the least common genotype for this variant in most studied populations.
Understanding the rs52826764 Variant
The rs52826764 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the MATN3 gene on chromosome 2. In genetics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant is categorized as a coding SNP, meaning it occurs in a region of the gene that provides instructions for building a protein. Researchers track these variations to understand how subtle differences in our genetic code might contribute to observable physical traits, such as height. Because height is a complex, polygenic trait—meaning it is influenced by the combined effects of many different genes and environmental factors—rs52826764 is studied as one of many potential contributors to the overall variation seen in human populations.
The Role of the MATN3 Gene
The MATN3 gene provides instructions for producing a protein called matrilin-3. This protein is a component of the extracellular matrix, which is the structural lattice that surrounds cells in tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Matrilin-3 is particularly important in the development of bones, a process known as osteogenesis. During this process, cartilage serves as a template that is eventually converted into bone in the limbs, hips, and spine. Research suggests that matrilin-3 helps organize collagen and other essential proteins within the cartilage, providing the necessary structural support for healthy bone formation. Because of its role in skeletal development, variations in the MATN3 gene are of interest to scientists studying how bone growth and overall stature are regulated at the molecular level.
Research Associations and Evidence
The association between rs52826764 and human height has been explored in large-scale genetic studies, including those utilizing exome arrays to identify coding variants. While many common variants have been linked to height through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the evidence for rs52826764 is considered moderate. In some clinical databases, this variant has been classified as 'probable-non-pathogenic' regarding specific skeletal conditions, indicating that it is not typically associated with severe disease. Instead, its primary interest in the literature lies in its role as a potential contributor to the natural spectrum of height variation. It is important to note that genetic associations are statistical in nature; they describe patterns observed across large groups of people and do not necessarily predict the height of any single individual.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
Information regarding genetic variants like rs52826764 is intended for educational purposes and should not be used for medical diagnosis or to make health decisions. Because height is influenced by hundreds of genetic markers and significant environmental factors—such as nutrition and overall health during childhood—a single variant provides only a tiny fraction of the picture. If you have questions about your growth, development, or skeletal health, it is best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional. They can provide context based on your personal medical history and physical examinations. Genetic data can be complex, and it is important to avoid drawing conclusions about your health based on isolated SNP results found in research databases.
How common is this variant?
Specific population frequency data for rs52826764 is not widely documented in standard public catalogs, suggesting it may be a low-frequency variant in many studied groups.
Frequently asked questions
Does having the rs52826764 variant mean I will be tall or short?
No. Height is a complex trait influenced by hundreds of different genes and environmental factors. A single variant like rs52826764 has a very small effect and cannot predict your height.
Is rs52826764 a disease-causing mutation?
In clinical databases, this variant is often classified as non-pathogenic. It is generally studied in the context of normal human variation rather than as a cause of disease.
Where can I find more information about my own genetic data?
If you have received results from a genetic testing service, you should review the provided reports and consult with a genetic counselor or your primary care physician to understand what the results mean for you.
Why is MATN3 important for bone growth?
MATN3 produces a protein that helps organize the structure of cartilage. Since cartilage is the template for bone growth in the body, this protein is essential for proper skeletal development.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/22/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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