ASIP rs910873: What Your Genotype Means
The rs910873 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the ASIP gene, which plays a key role in human pigmentation. Research indicates this variant is associated with variations in ASIP transcript levels and has been linked to skin pigmentation traits in European and Mediterranean populations.
What each genotype means
Baseline ASIP expression
This genotype is associated with lower levels of ASIP protein in the blood and skin compared to the G allele. Research indicates that this variant acts as a regulatory marker for the ASIP gene, which influences the balance of pigment types in skin and hair.
This genotype is common in many populations, though frequencies vary significantly by ancestry.
Intermediate ASIP expression
Carrying one copy of the G allele is associated with higher levels of ASIP protein in the blood and skin compared to the AA genotype. Because ASIP acts as a competitive inhibitor of the MC1R receptor, this genotype may influence pigmentation traits and has been studied for its potential association with skin cancer risk.
This heterozygous genotype is frequently observed in individuals of European and Mediterranean ancestry.
Elevated ASIP expression
This genotype is associated with the highest levels of ASIP protein in the blood and skin. Research has linked this allele to an increased risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, likely due to its role in regulating pigment production and MC1R signaling. Please discuss any concerns regarding skin health or cancer screening with your dermatologist or primary care physician.
This genotype is found at varying frequencies in European and Mediterranean populations, where it is recognized as a common genetic factor influencing pigmentation-related traits.
Understanding the rs910873 Variant
The rs910873 variant is a specific genetic marker, or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), located within the ASIP gene on chromosome 20. In genomics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This particular variant is categorized as a regulatory SNP, meaning it is thought to influence how the ASIP gene is expressed rather than changing the structure of the protein itself. By sitting in a regulatory region, rs910873 can affect the amount of messenger RNA (mRNA) produced by the gene, which in turn influences downstream biological processes. Scientists study these variants to understand the genetic architecture of complex traits, such as skin, hair, and eye color, which are influenced by the interplay of multiple genes and environmental factors.
The Role of the ASIP Gene
The ASIP gene encodes the Agouti Signaling Protein, a molecule that acts as a critical regulator of melanogenesis, the process by which pigment is produced in the body. In humans, ASIP functions as an antagonist to the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R). By binding to this receptor, ASIP prevents the production of eumelanin—the dark, brown-black pigment—and instead promotes the synthesis of pheomelanin, which is responsible for lighter, yellow-red pigments. This "switch" mechanism is fundamental to determining the color of skin and hair. Because ASIP is a secreted protein that acts as a paracrine signaling molecule, its expression levels are tightly controlled to ensure proper pigmentation patterns. Disruptions or variations in this gene's expression can lead to observable differences in human pigmentation phenotypes.
Research Associations and Evidence
Research into rs910873 has primarily focused on its role in pigmentation and skin health. Studies have observed that this variant is associated with differences in ASIP transcript levels in human epidermal biopsies, suggesting it plays a functional role in gene regulation. In the context of skin health, some research has identified nominal significant associations between rs910873 and the development of non-melanoma skin cancers in specific cohorts, such as Caucasian women. However, it is important to note that the evidence strength for this association is considered moderate. Genetic associations are statistical in nature and do not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship for any single individual. Pigmentation is a polygenic trait, meaning it is influenced by many different genetic variants, and environmental factors like sun exposure also play a significant role in skin health outcomes.
Population Frequency and Interpretation
The rs910873 variant is commonly observed in populations of European and Mediterranean ancestry. Because allele frequencies can vary significantly across different global populations, the presence of this variant is highly dependent on an individual's genetic background. When interpreting genetic information, it is essential to recognize that having a specific genotype does not determine a person's health or appearance in isolation. Instead, these variants contribute to a spectrum of biological variation. Readers should view this information as a piece of a much larger puzzle. If you are concerned about skin health or pigmentation changes, it is always best to consult with a dermatologist or a qualified healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your clinical history and physical examination, rather than relying solely on genetic data.
How common is this variant?
The rs910873 variant is common in European and Mediterranean ancestries, with its specific genotype frequencies varying across these populations.
Frequently asked questions
What does the ASIP gene do?
The ASIP gene provides instructions for making the Agouti Signaling Protein, which helps regulate the type of pigment produced in skin and hair follicles. It acts as a switch that promotes the production of lighter pigments instead of darker ones.
Is rs910873 a cause of skin cancer?
No, rs910873 is not a direct cause of skin cancer. While some studies have found statistical associations between this variant and skin cancer risk, these findings are complex and influenced by many other genetic and environmental factors.
Can I use this information to predict my skin color?
Genetic variants like rs910873 contribute to pigmentation, but skin color is a complex trait influenced by many genes and environmental factors. A single SNP cannot accurately predict an individual's skin color.
Should I be worried about my rs910873 genotype?
There is no reason to be worried about a specific genotype. Genetic variants are a normal part of human diversity, and you should discuss any concerns about your skin health with a dermatologist.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/30/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Regulatory variant near ASIP associated with eye and hair pigmentation phenotypes in forensic appearance models.
Intronic variant in the ASIP locus associated with skin color variation.
Intergenic regulatory variant upstream of ASIP associated with skin pigmentation and tanning response.
This variant in the ASIP gene is associated with variations in skin pigmentation and photo-aging susceptibility.
A variant in the ASIP gene associated with eye and hair color variation.
Strong eQTL regulating agouti signaling protein expression and correlated with baseline skin pigmentation.