CNR1 rs806380: Understanding Genetic Associations with Gaze
The rs806380 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the CNR1 gene region. Research has associated this specific genetic marker with variations in how individuals process and gaze at emotional stimuli, such as happy facial expressions.
What each genotype means
Typical eosinophil count
This genotype represents the more common version of this genetic marker in many populations. Research indicates that individuals with this genotype do not carry the specific allele associated with lower eosinophil percentages in large-scale blood cell studies. This finding is based on statistical associations and does not indicate a health condition or clinical diagnosis.
This is the most common genotype in most global populations, though frequencies vary significantly by ancestry.
Potential eosinophil variation
Carrying one copy of the T allele may be associated with variations in eosinophil percentage in the blood, as observed in large genome-wide association studies. Because this is a statistical association, it does not predict your specific blood cell counts or health status. Please consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your blood work or immune health.
This heterozygous genotype is found at varying frequencies globally, appearing in approximately 22% of individuals of European ancestry.
Associated with lower eosinophils
Research has identified this genotype as having a statistical association with lower eosinophil percentages in the blood. This association is based on population-level data and does not serve as a medical diagnosis or a direct indicator of your personal health. You should discuss any questions regarding your blood cell counts or immune system function with a qualified clinician.
This genotype is less common than the C/C or C/T combinations, with its prevalence varying widely across different ancestral groups.
What is rs806380?
The rs806380 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), which is a common type of genetic variation where a single building block of DNA—a nucleotide—differs between individuals. This specific SNP is located within the CNR1 gene, which encodes the cannabinoid receptor type 1. In the context of human genetics, SNPs like rs806380 are often studied to understand how subtle differences in our DNA sequence might correlate with observable traits or behaviors. Because this variant is located in a region involved in the endocannabinoid system, researchers have investigated its potential role in neurological and behavioral processes. It is important to note that rs806380 is just one of many thousands of variations across the human genome, and its presence does not determine a specific outcome but rather contributes to the complex interplay of genetics and environment that shapes human behavior.
The Role of the CNR1 Gene
The CNR1 gene provides instructions for making the cannabinoid receptor type 1 protein. This receptor is a critical component of the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling network that plays a role in regulating various physiological and cognitive processes, including mood, memory, appetite, and pain sensation. These receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, particularly in areas of the brain associated with reward and emotional processing. By modulating the release of neurotransmitters, the CNR1 receptor helps maintain balance within the brain's signaling pathways. Variations within or near this gene, such as rs806380, are of interest to scientists because they may influence how these receptors are expressed or how efficiently they function. Understanding the function of the CNR1 gene is essential for interpreting how genetic variants in this region might influence behavioral responses to social and emotional cues.
Research and Behavioral Associations
Scientific research has explored the association between rs806380 and behavioral traits, specifically regarding how people process social information. One study identified an association between this SNP and the duration of gaze toward happy faces. The findings suggested that individuals with specific genotypes at this location exhibited different patterns of visual attention when viewing emotional stimuli. Specifically, the study noted that certain allelic groups were associated with longer gaze duration at happy faces, potentially linked to differences in striatal brain activity. While these results provide interesting insights into the biological underpinnings of social cognition, the evidence strength is considered moderate. It is crucial to recognize that these associations are statistical in nature and observed in specific study populations. They do not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship, and further research is required to replicate these findings across diverse groups and to fully understand the underlying mechanisms.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
When encountering information about genetic variants like rs806380, it is important to maintain a balanced perspective. Genetic associations identified in research studies are often based on group averages and may not predict individual behavior or traits. Many factors, including environmental influences, life experiences, and the interaction of thousands of other genes, contribute to the complexity of human behavior. You cannot use this information to diagnose any condition or predict personal outcomes. If you are interested in how your genetics might influence your health or behavior, it is best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a genetic counselor who can provide context based on your personal and family history. Always approach direct-to-consumer genetic reports with caution, as they often present simplified interpretations of complex scientific data that require professional expertise to accurately understand and apply to your life.
How common is this variant?
The rs806380 variant was selected in research studies specifically to ensure a minor allele frequency greater than 0.2 in Caucasian populations, though specific global frequency data is not broadly standardized in the provided records.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs806380 associated with a specific disease?
No, rs806380 is not currently established as a diagnostic marker for any specific disease. It has been studied primarily in the context of behavioral traits and social cognition.
Can I change my behavior based on my rs806380 genotype?
Genetic information regarding this variant is statistical and does not dictate your behavior. You should not attempt to change your life or health habits based on this single SNP.
Where can I find more information about CNR1?
You can search for the CNR1 gene on resources like the NCBI Gene database or MedlinePlus Genetics. These sites provide comprehensive, peer-reviewed information on gene functions.
Are these findings applicable to everyone?
Genetic associations are often ancestry-specific and may not apply to all populations. Research findings should be interpreted as preliminary until they are replicated across diverse groups.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/4/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs806380?
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 in the TYK2 gene is identified as a shared causal signal in the genetic architecture of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
This TYK2 variant shows evidence of antagonistic pleiotropy, with opposite effects on the risk of psoriasis versus rheumatoid arthritis.
This SNP acts as an intermediate allele tag for the C9orf72 repeat expansion, which is linked to both ALS risk and longevity outcomes.
This variant in the CDKN2B-AS1 long noncoding RNA gene is associated with extreme longevity in genome-wide association studies.
This variant has been identified as a shared genetic signal between longevity and Alzheimer's disease risk.
A variant in the ALOX5 gene associated with potential modulation of inflammatory responses to dietary factors.