SLCO1B1 rs11568826: What Your Genotype Means
The rs11568826 variant is a genetic change located within the SLCO1B1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein that transports substances into the liver. This specific variant is studied in pharmacogenomics for its potential to influence how the body processes certain medications, including statins used to manage cholesterol.
What each genotype means
Typical transporter function
This genotype represents the most common form of the SLCO1B1 gene, often associated with the *1 haplotype. Research indicates this version of the transporter typically functions as expected for moving medications like statins into the liver. Please discuss any medication dosing or concerns with your clinician or pharmacist.
Carried by the majority of individuals in most global populations.
Potential altered transport
This genotype includes one copy of the variant allele associated with the SLCO1B1*4 haplotype. While some studies suggest this variant may influence how the body processes certain medications, current evidence regarding its clinical impact remains limited and inconsistent. Please discuss your medication regimen and any potential side effects with your clinician or pharmacist.
Carried by approximately 1 in 4 to 1 in 5 people in European and American populations.
Potential altered transport
This genotype includes two copies of the variant allele associated with the SLCO1B1*4 haplotype. Research into this specific variant is ongoing, and current evidence regarding its effect on drug metabolism is limited compared to other SLCO1B1 variants. Please discuss your medication regimen and any potential side effects with your clinician or pharmacist.
Carried by approximately 1 in 50 to 1 in 100 people in European and American populations.
Understanding the rs11568826 Variant
The rs11568826 variant is a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) found in the SLCO1B1 gene on chromosome 12. In genetic terms, this variant represents a change at a specific position in the DNA sequence, specifically a substitution of cytosine (C) for adenine (A), known as c.463C>A. This change results in an amino acid alteration from proline to threonine at position 155 (p.Pro155Thr) in the resulting protein. This variant is often categorized as part of the SLCO1B1*4 haplotype. Because this gene is responsible for the production of a transporter protein, changes in its sequence can theoretically alter the protein's structure or efficiency. Researchers study these variations to understand if they contribute to differences in how individuals respond to various therapeutic drugs, particularly those that rely on hepatic uptake for their primary action or metabolism.
The Role of the SLCO1B1 Gene
The SLCO1B1 gene encodes the organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1). This protein is primarily expressed in the liver, where it acts as a gatekeeper, facilitating the uptake of various endogenous compounds and exogenous substances, such as medications, from the blood into liver cells (hepatocytes). By moving these substances into the liver, OATP1B1 plays a critical role in the body's ability to process, metabolize, and eventually clear drugs from the bloodstream. When the function of this transporter is altered due to genetic variation, it can lead to changes in the concentration of a drug within the blood or the liver. In the context of statins, which are designed to work within the liver to lower cholesterol, reduced transporter function might lead to higher systemic drug levels, which is a subject of ongoing investigation regarding potential side effects.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between SLCO1B1 variants and drug response is a major focus of pharmacogenomics. While certain variants in this gene, such as rs4149056, have strong, well-established links to statin-associated muscle symptoms, the evidence for rs11568826 is currently considered limited. Scientific studies continue to explore whether this specific variant contributes significantly to altered pharmacokinetics or clinical outcomes. Because the evidence is not as robust as it is for other, more widely studied markers, it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions about its impact on an individual's health or medication response. Current research often involves large-scale genomic studies, such as those using the UK Biobank, to clarify the role of both common and rare variants. It is important to recognize that genetic associations are statistical in nature and do not guarantee a specific clinical outcome for any individual.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have information about your rs11568826 genotype, it is essential to view it within the broader context of your overall health and medical history. Genetic testing results for pharmacogenomic markers are not diagnostic tools and should never be used to make independent decisions about starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of prescribed medications. Because the evidence for this specific variant is limited, its clinical utility remains a subject of scientific debate. If you are concerned about how a medication like a statin might affect you, or if you are experiencing side effects, the most appropriate step is to consult with your healthcare provider or a clinical pharmacist. They can evaluate your genetic data alongside other factors, such as your age, kidney function, and other medications you may be taking, to provide personalized guidance on your treatment plan.
How common is this variant?
The rs11568826 variant has a minor allele frequency (MAF) of approximately 0.10 to 0.15 in European and American populations.
Frequently asked questions
What does the SLCO1B1 gene do?
The SLCO1B1 gene provides instructions for making the OATP1B1 protein, which helps transport substances from the blood into the liver. This process is important for the metabolism and clearance of many medications.
Is rs11568826 the same as other SLCO1B1 variants?
No, rs11568826 is a distinct genetic variant. While it is in the same gene as well-known variants like rs4149056, it represents a different change in the DNA sequence.
Should I change my medication based on this result?
No. You should never change your medication dosage or stop taking a prescribed drug based on genetic test results without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Why is the evidence for this variant called 'limited'?
Evidence is labeled as limited when there are not enough large-scale, consistent studies to definitively prove that the variant causes a specific clinical effect. More research is needed to understand its significance.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/14/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This missense variant (p.Pro155Thr) is associated with reduced OATP1B1 transporter function, which can lead to increased plasma concentrations of certain statins and higher risk of myopathy.
A regulatory variant in the SLCO1B1 gene influencing statin pharmacokinetics.
Defines the c.388A>G (p.Asn130Asp) variant, which is a component of the SLCO1B1*1B and *15 haplotypes, influencing hepatic statin uptake.
Non-synonymous coding polymorphism (p.Asn130Asp) defining the SLCO1B1*30 allele with modest alteration in hepatic statin uptake.
This variant (c.521T>C) is strongly associated with decreased function of the OATP1B1 transporter, significantly increasing the risk of statin-induced myopathy.
Known as SLCO1B1*1b (p.Asn130Asp), this variant alters hepatic transporter activity and modulates statin exposure and pharmacokinetic clearance.