CDH18 rs55768294: What Your Genotype Means
The genetic variant rs55768294 is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the CDH18 gene. It has been identified in genome-wide association studies as being linked to variations in the levels of glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1.
What each genotype means
Typical genetic profile
This is the most common genotype observed in the general population. Research indicates this variant is associated with variations in glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1 levels, but this specific genotype does not carry the rare allele linked to these findings.
This is the predominant genotype found across all major global populations.
Associated with protein levels
You carry one copy of the rare allele associated with differences in glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1 levels. This association is based on GWAS data, and you should not interpret this as a medical diagnosis or a direct indicator of disease risk.
This genotype is rare and observed at low frequencies across most ancestral populations.
Associated with protein levels
You carry two copies of the rare allele associated with differences in glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1 levels. While this variant has been identified in GWAS studies regarding protein levels, the clinical significance of this specific genotype remains a subject of ongoing research.
This genotype is very rare and is found in a small fraction of the population globally.
Understanding rs55768294
The variant rs55768294 is a specific change in the DNA sequence, categorized as a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). In genomics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA chain, where one nucleotide—the building block of DNA—is replaced by another. This particular variant is situated within the CDH18 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein belonging to the cadherin family. Cadherins are essential for cell-to-cell adhesion, helping cells stick together to form organized tissues. Because this variant is located in a region associated with gene regulation or protein expression, researchers study it to understand how subtle changes in our genetic code might influence the biological processes occurring within our cells. It is important to note that the presence of a SNP is a normal part of human genetic diversity and does not inherently imply a health condition.
The Role of the CDH18 Gene
The CDH18 gene encodes a type II classical cadherin, a protein that plays a critical role in the nervous system. Cadherins are calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that are vital for the formation and maintenance of stable cell-cell junctions. In the context of the brain, CDH18 is thought to be involved in the development and connectivity of neurons. By facilitating the physical connections between cells, these proteins help maintain the structural integrity of tissues. Research into CDH18 often focuses on its expression patterns in the brain and its potential role in neurological health. While the primary function of the protein is well-documented in cellular biology, the specific impact of regulatory variants like rs55768294 on the overall function of the CDH18 protein remains a subject of ongoing scientific investigation. Understanding these mechanisms helps scientists map the complex relationship between our DNA and the proteins that keep our bodies functioning.
Research Associations and Evidence
The association between rs55768294 and glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1 levels has been identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS). GWAS are large-scale research projects that scan the genomes of many individuals to find statistical links between specific genetic variants and particular traits or protein levels. The evidence for this specific association is currently considered moderate. This means that while statistical analysis has shown a correlation, it does not necessarily establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Furthermore, genetic associations can be complex and influenced by many other factors, including other genes and environmental influences. It is common in genomics for initial findings to require replication across diverse populations to confirm their robustness. As with many variants identified in GWAS, the clinical significance of this finding is still being explored by the scientific community, and it is not currently used for diagnostic or predictive medical purposes.
Population Frequency
The variant rs55768294 is classified as rare in the general population. In genomics, a variant is considered rare if it appears at a very low frequency across large, diverse groups of people. Databases like the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) are used by researchers to determine how common a variant is by aggregating sequencing data from hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide. Because this variant is rare, it is not found in the vast majority of the human population. Rare variants are often the focus of specialized studies because they can sometimes provide unique insights into biological pathways that are not as easily observed with common variants. The rarity of rs55768294 also means that there is less data available compared to more common SNPs, which contributes to the moderate strength of the current evidence regarding its functional impact.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have encountered this variant in a personal genetic report, it is important to view it within the context of current scientific knowledge. Genetic information is complex, and the presence of a specific SNP does not provide a complete picture of your health. Because the evidence linking rs55768294 to protein levels is based on statistical associations rather than definitive clinical outcomes, this information should not be used to make medical decisions or to predict future health status. You cannot change your genetic code, and most variants have no observable impact on daily life. If you have concerns about your health or specific genetic findings, the most appropriate step is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a genetic counselor. They can help you interpret your results accurately, explain the limitations of current research, and provide guidance based on your personal medical history and clinical needs.
How common is this variant?
The variant rs55768294 is considered rare, appearing at a very low frequency across global populations in large-scale genomic databases.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean if I have the rs55768294 variant?
Having this variant simply means you carry a specific DNA sequence at a particular location in the CDH18 gene. It is a normal part of human genetic variation and does not indicate a disease or a medical condition.
Is rs55768294 linked to cancer?
This variant has been associated with levels of a protein related to glioma pathogenesis in research studies. However, this is a statistical association and does not mean that carrying the variant causes cancer.
Should I be worried about my CDH18 gene?
No, there is no reason for concern. Genetic variants are common, and most have no impact on your health. This variant is a subject of scientific research, not a clinical diagnostic marker.
Can I change my genotype for this variant?
No, your genetic sequence is determined at conception and cannot be changed. Genetic information is a static record of your biological blueprint.
Where can I find more information about this SNP?
You can look up the rsID on public databases like the NCBI SNP database or the GWAS Catalog. These resources provide the most up-to-date scientific data on genetic variants.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/2/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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