ABCC11 rs17822931: What Your Genotype Means
The rs17822931 variant in the ABCC11 gene is a well-studied genetic marker that determines whether an individual has dry or wet earwax. It is also significantly associated with the intensity of axillary body odor due to its role in the secretion of odorant precursors.
What each genotype means
Wet earwax and typical body odor
You carry two functional copies of the ABCC11 gene (often designated wild-type c.538G). Research shows this genotype supports typical apocrine gland secretion, which strongly correlates with producing wet, sticky earwax and standard precursors for axillary body odor. These traits are benign physical characteristics and do not represent a medical condition.
Carried by approximately 70% to 85% of people of European and African ancestries, but present in less than 5% of East Asian populations.
Wet earwax and typical body odor
You carry one functional G allele and one non-functional A allele (c.538G>A). Because the functional allele acts in a dominant manner for apocrine secretion, individuals with this genotype typically exhibit wet earwax and characteristic axillary odor presentation. This is a common, normal variation and carries no adverse health implications on its own.
Found in about 15% to 25% of individuals of European ancestry and roughly 10% to 20% of individuals of East Asian ancestry.
Dry earwax and reduced body odor
You carry two copies of the non-functional A allele (c.538G>A), resulting in loss of the ABCC11 transport protein in apocrine glands. Published studies associate this recessive genotype with dry, flaky earwax and substantially reduced apocrine secretion of typical underarm odor precursors. While odor precursors are decreased, everyday body odor can still arise from skin bacteria, general sweating, and other metabolic pathways.
Found in approximately 80% to 95% of individuals of East Asian descent, but present in only about 1% to 3% of individuals of European or African descent.
Understanding the rs17822931 Variant
The variant rs17822931 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the ABCC11 gene. Specifically, it involves a substitution of guanine (G) to adenine (A) at position 538 of the gene sequence, which results in a change from glycine to arginine in the resulting protein. This specific change is widely recognized in scientific literature as the primary determinant of human earwax type. While many genetic variants have subtle or unknown effects, this SNP is notable for its clear, observable impact on physical traits. It serves as a classic example of how a single change in the DNA sequence can lead to distinct phenotypic differences across human populations. Researchers have extensively studied this variant to understand its evolutionary history and its functional role in human physiology.
The Role of the ABCC11 Gene
The ABCC11 gene encodes a protein known as multidrug resistance-associated protein 8 (MRP8). This protein belongs to the ABC transporter family, which is responsible for moving various molecules across cell membranes. In the context of this variant, the ABCC11 protein is expressed in apocrine sweat glands, which are found in areas such as the underarms and the ear canal. The protein functions by transporting odorant precursors and other substances out of these glands. When the variant is present, the transport activity of the protein is significantly reduced. This reduction in activity prevents certain chemical compounds from reaching the skin surface, which directly influences the chemical composition of earwax and the intensity of body odor produced in the axillary region.
Research Associations and Evidence
The association between rs17822931 and physical traits is supported by robust evidence. Studies have consistently shown that individuals with the AA genotype produce dry earwax, while those with GG or GA genotypes typically have wet earwax. Furthermore, the variant is strongly linked to axillary osmidrosis, a condition characterized by strong body odor. Research indicates that individuals with the AA genotype produce significantly lower levels of characteristic axillary odorants compared to those with the G allele. This evidence is considered strong within the scientific community, as the functional mechanism—the reduced transport of odorant precursors—has been validated through biochemical assays. While the trait is clearly linked to this SNP, it is important to note that environmental factors and other genetic modifiers can also influence the final presentation of these traits.
Population Frequency and Evolution
The frequency of the rs17822931 variant varies dramatically across different global populations, suggesting a history of natural selection. The A allele is highly prevalent in East Asian populations, where it is often found at frequencies exceeding 85%. In contrast, the G allele is the predominant form in European and African populations, where the A allele is relatively rare, often appearing at frequencies below 15%. Evolutionary biologists hypothesize that the A allele may have provided a selective advantage in colder climates, potentially related to the physical properties of earwax or other physiological adaptations. This striking geographical gradient makes rs17822931 one of the most differentiated SNPs between East Asian and other global populations, serving as a significant marker in human population genetics.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
Knowing your genotype for rs17822931 provides insight into your biological predisposition for earwax type and body odor intensity. However, it is important to remember that this information is for educational purposes only. Genetic traits are complex, and while this SNP is a major determinant, it does not account for every factor that influences personal hygiene or physiological presentation. This information cannot be used to diagnose any medical condition or health status. If you have concerns regarding body odor or ear health, these are best addressed by consulting with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist. Genetic testing results should be viewed as one piece of a larger biological puzzle rather than a definitive assessment of your overall health or personal characteristics.
How common is this variant?
The A allele is highly frequent in East Asian populations (often >0.85), while the G allele is the major allele in European and African populations (often >0.85).
Frequently asked questions
Does my ABCC11 genotype mean I don't need deodorant?
While the AA genotype is associated with significantly lower production of axillary odorants, it does not eliminate body odor entirely. Personal hygiene preferences remain a matter of individual choice regardless of your genetic profile.
Is dry earwax a sign of a health problem?
No, dry earwax is a normal, genetically determined trait. It is the standard phenotype for a large portion of the global population, particularly those of East Asian ancestry.
Can I change my earwax type?
Earwax type is determined by your genetics at the ABCC11 locus and cannot be changed. It is a stable physical trait inherited from your parents.
Why is this variant so common in some populations but not others?
The high frequency of the A allele in East Asia is believed to be the result of positive natural selection. Scientists suggest this may have been an adaptation to cold climates in the distant past.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/12/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Non-coding regulatory variant in linkage disequilibrium with the dry earwax and body odor determinant allele.
Classic determinant of dry earwax versus wet earwax and axillary body odor production.
This variant determines earwax type (wet vs. dry) and is a primary genetic determinant of axillary osmidrosis (body odor).
A linked non-coding regulatory variant in strong LD with the causative ABCC11 earwax and body odor determinant.
This variant is often confused with the functional rs17822931 (538G>A) variant; rs17822931 is the primary determinant of apocrine secretion, dry versus wet earwax, and axillary osmidrosis.
This variant in the ABCC11 gene is the primary determinant of earwax type, where the AA genotype results in dry earwax and the GG/GA genotypes result in wet earwax.