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 wet or dry earwax. It is also strongly associated with the presence or absence of axillary osmidrosis, a condition characterized by distinct underarm body odor.
What each genotype means
Wet earwax and odor
This genotype is associated with the production of wet-type earwax and a higher likelihood of axillary osmidrosis (body odor). Research indicates that the G allele supports normal function of the ABCC11 protein in apocrine glands, which contributes to these traits.
This genotype is common in populations of African and European ancestry but is less frequent in East Asian populations.
Wet earwax and odor
Individuals with this heterozygous genotype typically exhibit the wet-type earwax phenotype and are associated with the presence of axillary body odor. Because the G allele is dominant for these traits, the presence of one G allele is sufficient to maintain the secretory function of the apocrine glands.
This genotype is found across various global populations, with its prevalence varying significantly by geographic region.
Dry earwax and reduced odor
This genotype is strongly associated with dry-type earwax and a significantly reduced risk of axillary osmidrosis. The AA genotype results in a loss of function of the ABCC11 protein, which leads to low-secretory phenotypes in the apocrine glands.
This genotype is highly prevalent in East Asian populations, where it is carried by the majority of individuals, but it is relatively uncommon in populations of African and European descent.
Understanding the rs17822931 Variant
The rs17822931 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located on chromosome 16 within the ABCC11 gene. In genetic research, this SNP is frequently cited as a landmark example of how a single change in DNA can result in a visible, observable physical trait. Specifically, this variant involves a substitution of guanine (G) to adenine (A) at a specific position in the gene's sequence. This change alters the function of the protein produced by the gene, which in turn influences the chemical composition of secretions from apocrine glands. Because these glands are responsible for producing both earwax and sweat, the variant has a direct impact on the physical characteristics of these substances. It is important to note that while this variant is a primary determinant for these traits, other environmental and biological factors can also influence individual experiences with body odor and earwax consistency.
The Role of the ABCC11 Gene
The ABCC11 gene provides instructions for making a protein known as multidrug resistance-associated protein 8 (MRP8). This protein functions as a transporter, moving various molecules across cell membranes. In the context of apocrine glands, the MRP8 protein is essential for secreting specific odorant precursors into sweat. When the gene functions typically, these precursors are transported to the skin's surface, where they are metabolized by bacteria, resulting in the characteristic underarm body odor. In individuals with the variant that renders the protein less effective or inactive, these precursors are not transported efficiently. Consequently, the bacteria on the skin have fewer compounds to metabolize, which significantly reduces the production of underarm odor. This same transport mechanism is responsible for the consistency of earwax; the presence of the functional protein leads to wet, sticky earwax, while its absence results in dry, flaky earwax.
Research and Associations
Scientific research has established a strong correlation between the rs17822931 genotype and the phenotypes of earwax type and axillary osmidrosis. Studies have consistently shown that individuals carrying the G allele are significantly more likely to have wet earwax and a higher susceptibility to axillary osmidrosis. Conversely, those with the AA genotype are strongly associated with dry earwax and a reduced likelihood of noticeable underarm odor. While the evidence linking this SNP to these traits is robust, it is categorized as a trait-associated variant rather than a disease-causing mutation. The association with axillary osmidrosis is a matter of biological variation rather than a medical pathology. Researchers continue to study the ABCC11 gene for its broader roles in cellular transport and potential implications in other areas of human physiology, though the link to earwax and body odor remains the most well-documented and widely recognized association.
Population Frequency
The frequency of the rs17822931 variant varies significantly across different global populations. The A allele, which is associated with dry earwax and reduced body odor, is highly prevalent in East Asian populations, with some studies suggesting it is present in 80% to 95% of individuals in these groups. In contrast, this allele is much less common in populations of European and African descent, where the G allele is the predominant form. This distribution is a classic example of how genetic traits can become fixed or highly frequent within specific ancestral groups due to historical population dynamics. Understanding these frequency differences is helpful for researchers studying human migration and genetic diversity, but it does not change the fundamental biological function of the gene for any individual, regardless of their ancestry.
Interpreting Your Information
Information regarding your rs17822931 genotype is primarily for educational purposes and personal interest. Because this variant is associated with normal human physical traits like earwax type and body odor, it does not provide information about your health status or risk for medical conditions. You cannot use this information to diagnose any medical issue. If you have concerns about body odor or any other physical trait, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist. They can provide guidance based on clinical evaluation rather than genetic data. Remember that genetics is only one piece of the puzzle; lifestyle, hygiene, and environmental factors play a significant role in how these traits manifest in your daily life. Always approach genetic information with the understanding that it describes biological tendencies, not absolute outcomes.
How common is this variant?
The A allele is highly prevalent in East Asian populations, occurring in 80% to 95% of individuals, while it is significantly less common in European and African populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does my earwax type affect my health?
No, earwax type is a normal physical trait determined by your genetics. It is not an indicator of your overall health or a sign of any medical condition.
Can I change my body odor if I have the GG genotype?
Body odor is influenced by many factors, including hygiene, diet, and the skin microbiome. While your genetics play a role, personal care practices are the primary way to manage underarm odor.
Is the ABCC11 gene related to breast cancer?
Some research has explored potential links between ABCC11 and various health outcomes, but the primary and most well-supported association is with earwax type and body odor. Any concerns regarding cancer risk should be discussed with a medical professional.
Why is this variant so common in East Asia?
The high frequency of the A allele in East Asian populations is likely due to historical evolutionary pressures or genetic drift. It is a common example of how specific genetic traits can become widespread within certain ancestral groups.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/23/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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A linked non-coding regulatory variant in strong LD with the causative ABCC11 earwax and body odor determinant.
Upstream noncoding variant linked to ABCC11 538G>A haplotype regulating apocrine secretion, determining dry versus wet earwax and body odor.
Non-coding regulatory variant in linkage disequilibrium with the dry earwax and body odor determinant allele.
Functional determinant of earwax dry/wet type and axillary body odor presentation via apocrine gland excretion.
Classic determinant of dry earwax versus wet earwax and axillary body odor production.
A variant in ABCC11 determines whether your earwax is dry or wet and is also linked to underarm odor. The dry-earwax phenotype is common in East Asian populations.