FLT1 rs7335588: Understanding This Genetic Variant
The rs7335588 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the FLT1 gene. This gene is critical for vascular development, and research has investigated its role in placental function and pregnancy-related health.
What each genotype means
Typical FLT1 variant profile
This genotype represents the homozygous state for the minor allele of the rs7335588 variant. Research has investigated this variant in the context of angiogenic pathway genes and conditions like preeclampsia, though current evidence remains limited and does not establish a definitive clinical risk. This variant is located in the FLT1 gene, which is essential for vascular development and VEGF signaling.
This genotype is relatively uncommon in the general population.
Typical FLT1 variant profile
This genotype represents the heterozygous state for the rs7335588 variant. While this SNP is located in the FLT1 gene, which plays a critical role in placental development and vascular homeostasis, there is currently no strong clinical evidence to suggest this specific genotype significantly alters health outcomes. Associations reported in scientific literature are preliminary and require further validation.
This genotype is observed at moderate frequencies across various global populations.
Typical FLT1 variant profile
This genotype represents the homozygous state for the major allele of the rs7335588 variant. As this is the most common form of this variant, it is generally considered the baseline state for the FLT1 gene in most populations. There is no evidence to suggest that carrying this genotype confers any specific health risk or clinical condition.
This is the most common genotype for this variant, found in the majority of individuals across most ancestral groups.
What is rs7335588?
The rs7335588 variant is a specific genetic change, or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), located on chromosome 13. In the human genome, SNPs represent positions where a single building block of DNA—a nucleotide—differs between individuals. This particular variant is situated within the FLT1 gene region. Scientists track these variations to understand how subtle differences in our DNA sequence might influence biological processes or susceptibility to certain health conditions. Because rs7335588 is a common variant, it is found frequently across diverse human populations. Researchers use large-scale genomic studies to determine if the presence of specific alleles at this location correlates with measurable differences in physiological traits or disease risk.
The Role of the FLT1 Gene
The FLT1 gene, also known as fms-related receptor tyrosine kinase 1, provides instructions for making a protein that acts as a receptor for vascular endothelial growth factors. This protein, often called VEGFR1, is essential for angiogenesis, which is the process of forming new blood vessels. It is expressed in various tissues, including vascular endothelial cells and placental trophoblast cells. Beyond its role in blood vessel formation, the FLT1 gene is involved in cell survival, migration, and immune cell function. Because of its central role in regulating blood vessel growth, the gene is a major focus of research regarding placental development and the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy, as well as its involvement in various other physiological pathways.
Research and Associations
Scientific research has extensively studied the FLT1 gene due to its involvement in vascular health. Studies have explored whether genetic variations near or within this gene are associated with conditions like preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure. While some variants in the FLT1 region have shown strong statistical associations with pregnancy-related outcomes in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the evidence for any single SNP can vary. It is important to note that genetic associations are statistical observations across large groups of people and do not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship for an individual. Current research continues to investigate how these variants might influence the expression of soluble FLT1 proteins, which are known to play a role in the pathophysiology of vascular-related pregnancy disorders.
Population Frequency
The rs7335588 variant is considered a common genetic variation. Population data from large-scale genomic databases indicate that the different alleles for this SNP are present at significant frequencies across various ancestral groups. This high frequency suggests that the variant has been maintained in the human gene pool over time. Because it is common, it is frequently encountered in genetic testing and research cohorts. Understanding the frequency of such variants is a fundamental part of population genetics, as it helps researchers distinguish between rare mutations that might have large effects and common variations that contribute to the natural diversity of human traits.
Interpreting Genetic Information
Information about genetic variants like rs7335588 is intended for educational purposes and should not be used for medical diagnosis or personal health decisions. Genetic associations are complex and are often influenced by a combination of many genes, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. If you have concerns about your health or pregnancy, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or a genetic counselor. They can provide context based on your personal and family medical history. Never use information from genetic databases to make changes to your medical care or to interpret your risk for specific conditions without professional guidance.
How common is this variant?
The rs7335588 variant is a common polymorphism found across diverse global populations, with the different alleles appearing at high frequencies in most ancestral groups.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs7335588 a cause of preeclampsia?
No, rs7335588 is not considered a direct cause of preeclampsia. While some variants in the FLT1 gene region are associated with pregnancy complications in statistical studies, these associations are complex and involve many factors.
Can I use this information to predict my health?
No, you cannot use this information to predict your health. Genetic variants provide only a small piece of the puzzle, and health outcomes are determined by a combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
Where can I find more information about FLT1?
You can find reliable information about the FLT1 gene on resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the NCBI Gene database. These sites provide comprehensive summaries of gene functions and their roles in human health.
Should I get tested for this variant?
There is no clinical recommendation to get tested for this specific variant. Genetic testing should only be performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional if there is a specific medical reason to do so.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/9/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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