SLCO1B1 rs72552719: What Your Genotype Means
The rs72552719 variant is a genetic change located within the SLCO1B1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein that helps transport substances into the liver. This specific variant is studied for its potential role in altering how the body processes certain medications, including statins.
What each genotype means
Normal transporter function
This genotype is considered the reference or wild-type state for this variant. Individuals with this profile typically exhibit standard hepatic uptake transporter efficiency for statins and other organic anions. Please discuss any medication dosing or concerns regarding statin therapy with your clinician or pharmacist.
This is the most common genotype in most global populations.
Intermediate transporter efficiency
This genotype represents a heterozygous state that may result in slightly altered hepatic uptake transporter efficiency compared to the reference. Research suggests that variants in this gene can influence the blood concentration of certain statins, which may impact both efficacy and the risk of muscle-related side effects. Please discuss your medication management and any symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Carried by a significant portion of the population, with a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.01 in European and East Asian populations.
Reduced transporter efficiency
This genotype is associated with reduced function of the OATP1B1 hepatic transporter, which can lead to higher plasma concentrations of certain statins. Elevated levels of these medications in the blood are statistically linked to an increased risk of statin-induced myopathy or muscle symptoms. You should consult your clinician or pharmacist regarding your statin therapy, as they may consider dose adjustments or alternative medications.
This is a less common genotype, occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 individuals based on a minor allele frequency of 0.01.
Understanding the SLCO1B1 Gene
The SLCO1B1 gene encodes the organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1). This protein is primarily found in the liver, where it acts as a gatekeeper, moving various compounds—including bile acids, hormones, and many medications—from the bloodstream into liver cells. By facilitating this uptake, OATP1B1 is essential for the liver to process and eventually clear these substances from the body. Because many drugs, such as statins used to lower cholesterol, rely on this transporter to reach their site of action or to be metabolized, variations in the SLCO1B1 gene can influence how effectively these drugs work or how long they remain in the bloodstream.
What is the rs72552719 Variant?
The rs72552719 variant is a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the SLCO1B1 gene. In genomics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence. This particular variant is categorized as a coding variant, meaning it has the potential to alter the structure or function of the OATP1B1 protein. It is sometimes associated with the *14 allele, a specific haplotype configuration of the gene. Research into this variant focuses on whether it changes the efficiency of the hepatic uptake transporter. While some SLCO1B1 variants are well-documented for their impact on drug safety, the evidence for rs72552719 specifically is considered limited, and its functional consequences are still being explored by the scientific community.
Research and Clinical Evidence
Current research into SLCO1B1 variants often centers on pharmacogenomics—the study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs. While certain other variants in SLCO1B1 are strongly linked to statin-induced muscle side effects, the evidence for rs72552719 is not as robust. Studies have investigated whether this variant influences the hepatic uptake of organic anions, but findings are often mixed or require larger cohorts to confirm clinical significance. Because the evidence strength is currently limited, it is not typically used as a primary marker for clinical decision-making. It is important to remember that genetic associations are statistical observations across large populations and do not necessarily predict an individual's specific response to a medication.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have received information about your rs72552719 genotype, it is important to view it within the context of your overall health. Genetic variants are only one of many factors—including age, diet, lifestyle, and other medications—that influence how your body responds to treatment. You cannot and should not use this information to make changes to your prescribed medications or dosages on your own. If you are concerned about how a medication is affecting you, or if you are curious about how your genetics might influence your treatment plan, please discuss these results with your clinician or pharmacist. They are the best resource for interpreting your genetic data in the context of your personal medical history and current health needs.
How common is this variant?
The minor allele frequency for rs72552719 is approximately 0.01 in European and East Asian populations, making it a relatively uncommon variant.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs72552719 the same as the well-known SLCO1B1 statin variant?
No, rs72552719 is a different variant than the more famous SLCO1B1 rs4149056 (often called T521C). While both are in the same gene, they have different levels of evidence regarding their impact on drug response.
Should I change my statin dose based on this result?
Absolutely not. You should never adjust your medication dosage based on genetic test results without consulting your doctor. Only a healthcare professional can determine if a change is appropriate for your specific health situation.
What does 'limited evidence' mean in genomics?
Limited evidence means that while some studies have looked at the variant, there is not enough consistent, large-scale data to definitively link it to a specific clinical outcome. It suggests that more research is needed to understand its true impact.
Can I use this to predict if I will have side effects from medication?
Currently, there is not enough evidence to use rs72552719 as a reliable predictor for medication side effects. Genetic testing for drug response is complex and should always be interpreted by a qualified medical professional.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/17/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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This missense variant (p.Pro155Thr) is associated with reduced OATP1B1 transporter function, which can lead to increased plasma concentrations of certain statins and higher risk of myopathy.
A regulatory variant in the SLCO1B1 gene influencing statin pharmacokinetics.
Defines the c.388A>G (p.Asn130Asp) variant, which is a component of the SLCO1B1*1B and *15 haplotypes, influencing hepatic statin uptake.
Non-synonymous coding polymorphism (p.Asn130Asp) defining the SLCO1B1*30 allele with modest alteration in hepatic statin uptake.
This variant (c.521T>C) is strongly associated with decreased function of the OATP1B1 transporter, significantly increasing the risk of statin-induced myopathy.
Known as SLCO1B1*1b (p.Asn130Asp), this variant alters hepatic transporter activity and modulates statin exposure and pharmacokinetic clearance.