Understanding rs2107357: Allergy Susceptibility and Genetics
The genetic variant rs2107357 is a single nucleotide polymorphism located in an intergenic region of the human genome. It has been identified in large-scale genome-wide association studies as having a statistical link to self-reported allergy susceptibility.
What each genotype means
Typical allergy risk profile
This genotype represents the homozygous state for the major allele. Research indicates this variant is associated with self-reported allergy susceptibility, though the effect size is considered moderate and influenced by complex environmental and genetic factors.
Carried by approximately 67% of individuals based on a global minor allele frequency of 0.18.
Slightly altered allergy risk
This heterozygous genotype includes one copy of the minor allele associated with allergy susceptibility in genome-wide association studies. Because this is a complex trait, this genotype does not determine clinical outcomes and should be viewed as one of many contributing factors to immune system sensitivity.
Carried by approximately 30% of individuals in populations where the minor allele frequency is 0.18.
Increased allergy risk profile
This homozygous genotype contains two copies of the minor allele identified in meta-analyses as being associated with higher self-reported allergy susceptibility. While this variant is statistically linked to the trait, it is not a diagnostic marker and does not guarantee the development of any specific allergy.
Carried by approximately 3% of individuals, consistent with a minor allele frequency of 0.18.
What is rs2107357?
The variant rs2107357 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), which is a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence among individuals. This specific SNP is located on chromosome 16 at position 27,399,058 (GRCh38). Because it is described as intergenic, it does not sit within the protein-coding sequence of a known gene. Instead, it resides in the non-coding DNA between genes. While intergenic regions were once dismissed as 'junk DNA,' modern research suggests that many of these areas play critical roles in regulating how nearby genes are turned on or off. Scientists use SNPs like rs2107357 as markers to help identify regions of the genome that may influence complex traits, such as the body's immune response to allergens.
Research and Allergy Associations
The association between rs2107357 and allergies was highlighted in a large-scale genome-wide association meta-analysis. Researchers examined the genetic data of over 50,000 individuals to look for patterns linked to self-reported allergies, including reactions to pollen, dust mites, and pets. The study identified rs2107357 as a locus showing a statistical association with these traits. It is important to note that the evidence for this association is considered moderate. In complex conditions like allergies, thousands of genetic variants often contribute small, incremental effects to an individual's overall risk. Therefore, while rs2107357 is a piece of the puzzle, it is not a definitive predictor of whether a person will develop an allergy. The biological mechanism by which this specific intergenic variant might influence immune sensitivity remains a subject of ongoing scientific investigation.
Population Frequency
Genetic variants are distributed differently across various human populations, and rs2107357 is no exception. According to data from the GWAS Catalog and SNPedia, the Global Minor Allele Frequency (GMAF) for this variant is approximately 0.1804. This frequency indicates that the variant is relatively common in the general population. Because this frequency is based on aggregate data, it is important to recognize that the prevalence of the specific alleles (C and T) can vary significantly depending on an individual's ancestral background. Large-scale studies often use these frequency metrics to ensure that their statistical models account for population structure, which helps researchers distinguish between true biological associations and patterns that arise simply due to shared ancestry.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have received information about your genotype for rs2107357, it is essential to view it within the context of current scientific understanding. This variant is associated with a trait in a statistical sense, meaning it was observed more frequently in groups of people who reported allergies compared to those who did not. However, this does not mean the variant causes allergies, nor does it mean that having a specific genotype guarantees a particular health outcome. Genetics is only one factor in allergy development; environmental exposures, lifestyle, and other genetic markers all play significant roles. You cannot use this information to diagnose yourself or predict future health conditions. If you have concerns about allergies or your immune health, the most effective approach is to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or an allergist who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history.
How common is this variant?
The variant rs2107357 has a Global Minor Allele Frequency (GMAF) of 0.1804, making it a relatively common genetic marker across diverse populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does having a specific rs2107357 genotype mean I have an allergy?
No. This variant is associated with a statistical increase in the likelihood of reporting allergies in large studies, but it is not a diagnostic test. Many people with this variant do not have allergies, and many people with allergies do not carry this variant.
Can I use this information to change my diet or lifestyle?
Genetic information regarding common variants like rs2107357 should not be used to make medical or dietary decisions. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your health regimen.
Is rs2107357 a 'bad' gene?
The term 'bad gene' is not scientifically accurate. rs2107357 is a common variation in the human genome that has been linked to immune-related traits. It is simply a natural variation that exists in many healthy individuals.
Where can I find more reliable information on allergy genetics?
You can explore resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the GWAS Catalog for peer-reviewed, evidence-based information. These platforms provide summaries of how genetic research is conducted and what the findings mean for public health.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/25/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs2107357?
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
This variant is located in a gene associated with sleep timing and circadian rhythm regulation.
Also known as TaqIB, this dopamine receptor D2 intronic variant is associated with reward processing, cognitive flexibility, and sensory preference traits.
Codon 27 substitution (Gln27Glu) in the beta-2 adrenergic receptor modulating receptor down-regulation, resting metabolic rate, and vascular reactivity.
Known as Arg305Trp, this missense variant significantly alters oculocutaneous melanin synthesis and is associated with light eye and hair color traits.
Carrying the AA genotype for this SNP is associated with an increased probability of exceptional longevity.
Genetic variation in the dopamine transporter gene DAT1 is significantly associated with habitual sleep duration in large-scale population studies.