rs1655556428: Understanding This Rare Intergenic Variant
The variant rs1655556428 is a rare genetic change located in an intergenic region of the human genome. It is currently being cataloged by researchers investigating its potential association with inherited retinal traits.
What each genotype means
Typical genetic baseline
This genotype represents the most common sequence observed at this location in the general population. Current research into this intergenic region is limited, and there is no established evidence linking this specific sequence to inherited retinal traits or clinical vision conditions.
This is the most frequent genotype observed across global populations.
Rare variant carrier
You carry one copy of a rare variant at this location. Because this variant is located in a low-complexity region and is currently being cataloged for potential associations with inherited retinal traits, its clinical significance remains uncertain and is considered a subject of ongoing research.
This genotype is extremely rare, occurring at a frequency consistent with the reported population allele frequency of approximately 0.000002284.
Rare variant homozygous
You carry two copies of a rare variant at this location. While this variant is being studied for potential links to inherited retinal traits, current evidence is limited and insufficient to determine if this genotype influences vision or health outcomes. Please consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns regarding your vision.
This genotype is exceptionally rare in the general population, appearing significantly less frequently than the heterozygous state.
What is rs1655556428?
The identifier rs1655556428 refers to a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) cataloged in the NCBI dbSNP database. In genomics, an rsID acts as a unique, persistent label for a specific location in the human DNA sequence where a variation has been observed. This particular variant is classified as intergenic, meaning it is located in the vast stretches of DNA that lie between protein-coding genes. While intergenic regions were once dismissed as 'junk DNA,' modern research has revealed that many of these areas contain regulatory elements that act like switches, controlling when and how genes are turned on or off. Because rs1655556428 is situated in a low-complexity region—a part of the genome characterized by repetitive or simple sequence patterns—it can be technically challenging to sequence and analyze accurately. Its presence in the catalog reflects ongoing efforts to map the full spectrum of human genetic diversity, particularly in regions that may influence complex biological processes like vision.
Research and Clinical Context
Currently, the evidence linking rs1655556428 to specific health outcomes is limited. The variant is primarily of interest to researchers studying inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs), a group of conditions that can lead to vision loss. IRDs are often monogenic, meaning they are caused by mutations in a single gene, but researchers are increasingly using large-scale biobanks to understand how rarer variants might contribute to the broader spectrum of retinal health. Because this variant is located in a non-coding, intergenic region, it does not directly alter a protein sequence. Instead, scientists investigate whether it might disrupt regulatory sequences that influence the development or maintenance of retinal cells. It is important to note that the presence of a variant in a research database does not imply a diagnosis or a guaranteed health outcome. Much of the current work in this field focuses on distinguishing between benign genetic variation and variants that may contribute to disease susceptibility.
Understanding Your Information
If you have encountered this variant in a personal genetic report, it is essential to understand that this information is for educational purposes only. Genetic variants, especially those with limited evidence, are rarely sufficient to predict complex health outcomes on their own. Many factors, including other genetic markers, environmental influences, and lifestyle, play significant roles in eye health. You cannot use this information to diagnose a condition or predict your future vision. If you have concerns about your eyesight or a family history of retinal disease, the most appropriate step is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an ophthalmologist or a genetic counselor. They can provide context based on your personal medical history and clinical examinations, which are far more informative than a single genetic data point. Always avoid making medical decisions based solely on raw genetic data found in public databases.
How common is this variant?
The variant rs1655556428 is extremely rare, with a reported population frequency of approximately 0.000002284.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean if a variant is 'intergenic'?
An intergenic variant is located in the DNA sequence between genes. While these regions do not code for proteins, they often contain regulatory sequences that help control gene expression.
Is rs1655556428 a cause of blindness?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that this variant alone causes blindness. It is being studied for its potential association with retinal traits, but the evidence remains limited.
Why is this variant in a 'low-complexity' region?
Low-complexity regions contain repetitive or simple DNA sequences. These areas are often harder for sequencing technologies to read accurately compared to other parts of the genome.
Should I be worried if I have this variant?
No. Most genetic variants are neutral and do not cause disease. If you are concerned about your vision, you should speak with an eye care professional rather than focusing on a single genetic marker.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/16/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.
This variant is an uncharacterized single nucleotide variation with no established clinical significance.