AR rs6625163: What Your Genotype Means
The rs6625163 variant is a single-nucleotide polymorphism located within the androgen receptor (AR) gene region on the X chromosome. It has been studied for its potential association with susceptibility to androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness.
What each genotype means
Typical androgen receptor profile
This genotype represents one of the common variations at the androgen receptor locus. Research indicates that the AR gene region is associated with early-onset androgenetic alopecia, though this specific variant is part of a complex, polygenic landscape where many factors contribute to hair loss patterns.
This genotype is common in many populations, though exact frequencies vary significantly by ancestry and sex due to its location on the X chromosome.
Typical androgen receptor profile
This genotype represents one of the common variations at the androgen receptor locus. Research indicates that the AR gene region is associated with early-onset androgenetic alopecia, though this specific variant is part of a complex, polygenic landscape where many factors contribute to hair loss patterns.
This genotype is common in many populations, though exact frequencies vary significantly by ancestry and sex due to its location on the X chromosome.
Typical androgen receptor profile
This genotype represents one of the common variations at the androgen receptor locus. Research indicates that the AR gene region is associated with early-onset androgenetic alopecia, though this specific variant is part of a complex, polygenic landscape where many factors contribute to hair loss patterns.
This genotype is common in many populations, though exact frequencies vary significantly by ancestry and sex due to its location on the X chromosome.
Understanding the Variant and Its Location
The variant rs6625163 is a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated on the X chromosome at position 67,291,142 (GRCh38). Because this variant is located on the X chromosome, its inheritance and expression patterns differ between biological males and females. In males, who typically possess one X chromosome, the presence of a specific allele at this locus directly influences their genetic profile for this site. In females, who typically possess two X chromosomes, the interaction between alleles can be more complex due to X-inactivation. This specific region of the X chromosome, often referred to as the AR/EDA2R locus, has been a primary focus of genetic research into hair loss for decades. Scientists study these specific locations to understand how minor variations in DNA sequence might contribute to observable physical traits, such as the pattern and timing of hair thinning on the scalp.
The Role of the Androgen Receptor Gene
The AR gene provides instructions for making a protein called the androgen receptor. This receptor allows the body to respond to androgens, which are hormones like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that play a significant role in male sexual development and other physiological processes. In the context of hair follicles, androgens can influence the hair growth cycle. Excessive sensitivity or response to these hormones in the scalp is a known factor in the development of androgenetic alopecia. While the AR gene is clearly involved in the biological pathway of hair loss, researchers are still working to determine if rs6625163 itself is a functional driver or if it is simply a marker that is inherited alongside other, more influential genetic changes in the nearby region. The complexity of this gene's regulation means that hair loss is likely the result of multiple genetic and environmental factors working in concert.
Research Associations and Evidence Strength
Research into rs6625163 and its link to androgenetic alopecia has yielded mixed results, leading to a classification of limited evidence. While the broader Xq12 region containing the AR gene is widely accepted as a major susceptibility locus for male pattern baldness, identifying the specific causative variants has proven difficult. Some studies have suggested that certain alleles at this locus may correlate with an increased risk of early-onset hair loss, but other investigations have found weaker or inconsistent associations. Because hair loss is a polygenic trait—meaning it is influenced by many different genes—no single SNP can reliably predict an individual's outcome. The scientific community continues to debate the exact contribution of this specific variant, emphasizing that while the AR locus is important, it is only one piece of a much larger and more complex genetic puzzle that determines hair growth patterns.
Population Frequency and Interpretation
The frequency of the alleles associated with rs6625163 varies across different ancestral populations. In many European male populations, the allele frequency for this variant is reported to be between 0.40 and 0.50. This high prevalence suggests that the variant is common and not restricted to individuals with a specific hair loss phenotype. Because the variant is so common in the general population, its presence alone is not a diagnostic tool for predicting whether an individual will experience hair loss. Genetic testing for such variants is generally considered for educational or research purposes rather than clinical diagnosis. If you are concerned about hair loss or are considering treatments, it is important to consult with a dermatologist or a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific health history and discuss evidence-based management options.
How common is this variant?
The rs6625163 variant is common, with allele frequencies ranging from approximately 0.40 to 0.50 in European male populations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this genetic test to predict if I will go bald?
No. Hair loss is a complex, polygenic trait influenced by many genes and environmental factors. A single SNP like rs6625163 cannot provide a reliable prediction of your future hair loss.
Is the AR gene the only cause of male pattern baldness?
No, the AR gene is just one of many genetic factors involved. Research has identified dozens of other loci across the genome that contribute to the risk of androgenetic alopecia.
Should I change my medication based on this result?
You should never change or stop any medication based on genetic test results without first consulting your physician or pharmacist. They can provide guidance based on your full medical history.
Why do different studies report different results for this SNP?
Genetic studies often vary due to differences in sample sizes, the ancestry of the participants, and the specific definitions of hair loss used. This is why the evidence for many individual SNPs remains limited.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/21/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs6625163?
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 in AR
Intronic variant at the androgen receptor locus associated with hereditary male pattern baldness.
This variant in the androgen receptor gene is associated with androgen insensitivity and has been linked to variations in human adult height.
Pathogenic substitution in the androgen receptor gene leading to partial or complete androgen insensitivity syndrome and male infertility.
Androgen receptor variant associated with male-pattern (androgenetic) hair loss.
Point mutation in AR causing mild androgen insensitivity syndrome, presenting with impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility.
Pathogenic substitution in the hormone-binding domain of the androgen receptor leading to complete androgen insensitivity syndrome.