CETP rs1532640: Understanding Your Genetic HDL-C Association
The rs1532640 variant is a genetic marker located within the CETP gene, which provides instructions for making the cholesteryl ester transfer protein. This variant is studied for its potential association with variations in serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and overall protein activity.
What each genotype means
Typical CETP activity
This genotype is associated with standard levels of cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity in the general population. Research indicates that individuals with this profile generally maintain typical HDL-cholesterol levels compared to those carrying the G allele. Please discuss your lipid profile and cardiovascular health with your clinician.
This is a common genotype observed across most global populations.
Intermediate CETP activity
Carrying one copy of the G allele is often associated with a modest reduction in CETP activity and a corresponding slight increase in HDL-cholesterol levels. These associations are statistical observations in large population studies and do not constitute a medical diagnosis. Consult your healthcare provider to interpret your specific lipid panel results.
This heterozygous genotype is frequently found in European and Asian populations, reflecting the common nature of the G allele.
Reduced CETP activity
This genotype is associated with lower levels of CETP activity and higher concentrations of HDL-cholesterol in many studies. While these changes are often observed, they are influenced by other genetic and lifestyle factors. Please consult with your doctor or a lipid specialist to understand how these findings relate to your overall cardiovascular health.
This genotype is carried by a significant portion of the population, with the G allele frequency reaching approximately 35-45% in many European and Asian cohorts.
What is the rs1532640 Variant?
The rs1532640 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated within the CETP gene on chromosome 16. In genomics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific variant is cataloged in public databases as a marker of interest due to its location in a gene critical to lipid metabolism. While many SNPs are neutral, researchers track those like rs1532640 to determine if they correlate with measurable physiological traits, such as the concentration of different cholesterol types in the blood. Because this variant is located in a region that may influence gene expression or protein function, it serves as a focal point for studies investigating how inherited DNA differences contribute to the diversity of cholesterol profiles observed across human populations.
The Role of the CETP Gene
The CETP gene encodes the cholesteryl ester transfer protein, a key player in the body's lipid transport system. This protein facilitates the exchange of lipids between different types of lipoproteins in the blood. Specifically, it moves cholesteryl esters from high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often called 'good' cholesterol, to other lipoproteins like low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). By regulating this transfer, CETP influences the circulating levels of HDL-C. When CETP activity is altered—either through genetic variation or pharmacological inhibition—it can lead to significant changes in the amount of cholesterol carried by HDL particles. Understanding the function of this protein is essential for researchers studying cardiovascular health, as the balance of these lipid particles is a major factor in how the body manages cholesterol transport and clearance.
Research and Evidence Strength
Current research into rs1532640 and other CETP variants is characterized by a focus on statistical associations with HDL-C levels. While the GWAS Catalog and other repositories note an association between CETP variation and lipid traits, the evidence strength for rs1532640 specifically is considered limited. Many studies in this field have historically focused on other, more prominent SNPs within the CETP gene, such as the well-studied Taq1B (rs708272). Consequently, while rs1532640 is recognized as a marker of interest, its individual contribution to clinical outcomes remains a subject of ongoing investigation. It is important to note that genetic associations are statistical in nature and do not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship for any single individual. Further functional studies are often required to clarify how specific variants influence protein activity and whether they have meaningful impacts on long-term health markers.
Population Frequency
The rs1532640 variant is relatively common, with a minor allele frequency typically reported between 0.35 and 0.45 across various European and Asian populations. This frequency indicates that the variant is widely distributed and not restricted to a single ancestral group. Because it is a common variant, it is frequently observed in large-scale genomic studies, which allows researchers to compare its presence across diverse cohorts. However, the impact of such variants can sometimes differ based on the genetic background of the population being studied. Researchers continue to analyze these frequency patterns to better understand the evolutionary history of the CETP gene and how different alleles have persisted in human populations over time.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have information about your genotype for rs1532640, it is important to view it as one small piece of a much larger biological puzzle. Genetic variants are not diagnostic tools; they do not predict your health status or determine your cholesterol levels in isolation. Factors such as diet, physical activity, age, and other genetic markers play a much larger role in determining your lipid profile. You cannot use this information to make medical decisions or to predict your risk for cardiovascular conditions. If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels or your cardiovascular health, the most effective approach is to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized guidance based on your clinical blood work and overall health history, which are far more informative than any single genetic variant.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency for rs1532640 is approximately 0.35 to 0.45 across European and Asian populations, making it a common genetic variant.
Frequently asked questions
Does the rs1532640 variant cause high cholesterol?
No, this variant does not cause high cholesterol. It is a genetic marker associated with variations in HDL-C levels, but cholesterol levels are influenced by a complex combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
Can I use this SNP to predict my heart disease risk?
No, you cannot use this SNP to predict heart disease risk. Genetic associations are statistical observations in large groups and are not sufficient for individual medical risk assessment.
Should I change my diet based on my CETP genotype?
You should not change your diet based on this genotype. Always consult with a doctor or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, as they can provide advice based on your actual blood lipid levels.
Is rs1532640 the same as the Taq1B variant?
No, rs1532640 is a different variant than the well-known Taq1B (rs708272) SNP. While both are located in the CETP gene, they are distinct genetic markers.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/17/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs1532640?
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 CETP
CETP promoter variant associated with preserved cognitive function, elevated HDL levels, and exceptional longevity across European cohorts.
The B2 (A) allele of the TaqIB polymorphism is associated with lower CETP activity and significantly higher HDL-cholesterol levels.
The missense variant p.Ile422Val (I405V) in CETP is associated with reduced cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity, leading to elevated HDL-C levels and modest protection against coronary artery disease.
The I405V variant in CETP is associated with altered HDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk profiles.
Well-established regulatory intronic polymorphism modulating cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity and circulating HDL cholesterol levels.
Known as the CETP TaqIB polymorphism, this intron variant is linked to reduced CETP activity, higher circulating HDL-C, and altered cardiovascular risk profile.