APOL1 rs73885316: Understanding Kidney Health Predispositions
The rs73885316 variant is a specific genetic change within the APOL1 gene that forms part of the G1 risk haplotype. This variant is strongly associated with an increased risk of chronic kidney disease and related renal conditions in individuals of African ancestry.
What each genotype means
Typical kidney disease risk
You carry two non-risk alleles at this site, representing the ancestral genotype. In published research, this genotype is not associated with elevated APOL1-mediated susceptibility to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or chronic kidney disease. It also does not confer the genetically driven protection against African trypanosomiasis seen with the G1 haplotype.
Carried by virtually 100% of individuals of European and East Asian descent, and by approximately 40% to 50% of individuals of recent West African ancestry.
G1 single allele carrier
You carry one copy of the G1 missense variant, which historically provided protection against African sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. Because APOL1-associated kidney disease generally follows a recessive genetic model, carrying a single risk allele does not typically increase chronic kidney disease risk on its own unless paired with another APOL1 risk allele such as G2. Clinical risk requires evaluating your complete APOL1 composite genotype in consultation with your healthcare provider.
Found in approximately 35% to 45% of individuals of West African ancestry and around 15% to 20% of African Americans, while virtually absent in non-African populations.
Elevated kidney disease risk
You carry two copies of the APOL1 G1 missense allele. Epidemiological studies show this homozygous high-risk genotype confers resistance to trypanosomiasis but is statistically linked to significantly higher susceptibility to chronic kidney disease, hypertension-attributed nephropathy, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. However, genetic penetrance is incomplete, meaning many individuals carrying two risk alleles never develop clinically apparent kidney dysfunction.
Carried by approximately 5% to 15% of individuals of West African descent and roughly 10% to 13% of African Americans, but it is extremely rare or absent in populations without African ancestry.
What is the rs73885316 Variant?
The rs73885316 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located within the APOL1 gene on chromosome 22. In the context of genetic research, this variant is recognized as a key component of the G1 risk haplotype. A haplotype is a group of genetic variations that are inherited together from a single parent. When researchers discuss the G1 haplotype, they are referring to a specific combination of variants, including rs73885316, that appear to function as a unit. Because this variant is located in a coding region of the gene, it can alter the structure of the protein produced by the APOL1 gene. Understanding the location and function of this SNP is essential for researchers studying why certain populations experience higher rates of kidney-related health challenges compared to others.
The Role of the APOL1 Gene
The APOL1 gene provides instructions for making a protein called apolipoprotein L1. This protein is a component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often referred to as 'good cholesterol,' and plays a role in the body's innate immune system. Specifically, the APOL1 protein has been shown to help protect against certain parasites, such as those that cause African sleeping sickness. However, when specific variants like those in the G1 haplotype are present, the function of the APOL1 protein may be altered in ways that affect kidney cells. Research suggests that these altered proteins can lead to cellular stress or damage within the kidneys. While the evolutionary advantage of these variants likely involved protection against infection, the trade-off appears to be an increased susceptibility to kidney dysfunction in some individuals.
Research and Clinical Associations
Scientific research has established a strong association between the APOL1 G1 risk haplotype and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Evidence from large-scale studies indicates that the risk is typically inherited in a recessive manner, meaning that an individual generally needs to carry two copies of risk alleles—either two G1 alleles, two G2 alleles, or one of each—to be at the highest risk. While the association is considered strong, it is important to note that not everyone who carries these high-risk genotypes will develop kidney disease. Many individuals with these variants maintain normal kidney function throughout their lives. The presence of these variants is a risk factor, not a definitive diagnosis, and researchers continue to investigate the environmental and other genetic factors that influence why some carriers develop disease while others do not.
Population Frequency and Distribution
The APOL1 risk variants, including those associated with the G1 haplotype, are most common in populations with recent West African ancestry. This distribution is thought to be linked to the historical evolutionary pressure of protecting against specific parasitic infections prevalent in those regions. In contrast, these variants are rare in populations of European or Asian descent. Because of this, the clinical focus on APOL1-related kidney risk is primarily centered on individuals of African descent. Studies have shown that approximately 18% of African Americans may carry high-risk genotypes, though this frequency can vary significantly depending on the specific cohort studied. Recognizing this population-specific frequency is a critical component of modern genomic medicine, as it helps clinicians better understand the genetic landscape of kidney health within diverse communities.
Managing Genetic Information
If you are aware that you carry the rs73885316 variant or other APOL1 risk alleles, it is important to understand that this information is a tool for health awareness rather than a medical diagnosis. Genetic testing results should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider or a genetic counselor who can interpret the findings in the context of your personal and family medical history. There is no specific medication or 'cure' for carrying these variants, but knowing your status may encourage you to be more proactive about monitoring your kidney health through regular check-ups and blood pressure management. You cannot change your genetic code, but you can work with your doctor to manage modifiable risk factors that contribute to overall kidney health. Always consult with your clinician before making any changes to your health management plan based on genetic information.
How common is this variant?
The APOL1 G1 risk haplotype, including rs73885316, is common in West African populations and individuals of African descent, while being rare in European and Asian populations.
Frequently asked questions
Does having the APOL1 risk variant mean I will get kidney disease?
No, having the risk variant does not mean you will definitely develop kidney disease. It is a risk factor, meaning it increases the statistical likelihood, but many people with these variants live their entire lives without experiencing kidney issues.
Should I get tested for APOL1 variants?
Genetic testing for APOL1 is generally not recommended for the general population. If you have a family history of kidney disease or specific concerns, you should discuss the potential benefits and limitations of such testing with your doctor or a genetic counselor.
Is there a treatment for APOL1-associated kidney risk?
There is currently no specific treatment to 'fix' the APOL1 gene. Management focuses on standard kidney health practices, such as controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, which are essential for everyone regardless of their genetic status.
Why are these variants more common in people of African ancestry?
These variants are believed to have been selected for in the human genome because they provided protection against certain parasites, such as those causing African sleeping sickness. This evolutionary advantage helped survival in specific environments but carries a risk for kidney health.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/6/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs73885316?
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 in APOL1
Essential component of the African ancestry-specific APOL1 G1 risk haplotype associated with protection against sleeping sickness and elevated susceptibility to end-stage renal disease.
Defines the APOL1 G2 allele (two-amino-acid deletion N388_Y389del) that provides protection against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense while conferring increased risk of chronic kidney disease.
Known as the G1 risk allele, this variant significantly increases the risk of chronic kidney disease, especially in those with African ancestry.