WFDC11 rs77468106: Understanding Your Genetic Variant
The rs77468106 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the WFDC11 gene. It has been identified in scientific studies as having a statistical association with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measurements.
What each genotype means
Typical HDL cholesterol profile
This genotype represents the most common genetic state at this position. Research indicates an association between this variant and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measurements, though the specific functional impact of this genotype remains a subject of ongoing study. This finding is based on statistical associations in population-level data and does not provide a clinical diagnosis.
This is the most frequently observed genotype across most global populations.
Associated with HDL cholesterol
Carrying one copy of the T allele is associated with variations in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measurements in large-scale genetic studies. Because this association is based on population averages, it may not reflect your individual cholesterol levels, which are influenced by many other genetic and lifestyle factors. Please discuss your lipid profile and any health concerns with your healthcare provider.
This genotype is found at varying frequencies depending on ancestral background, though it is generally less common than the homozygous CC state.
Associated with HDL cholesterol
Carrying two copies of the T allele is associated with variations in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measurements in large-scale genetic studies. This association is statistical in nature and does not account for the complex interplay of diet, exercise, and other genetic markers that determine your actual cholesterol levels. You should consult with a clinician to interpret your lipid panel results in the context of your overall health.
This is the least common genotype for this variant in most studied populations.
What is rs77468106?
A single nucleotide polymorphism, or SNP, is a variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals. The variant rs77468106 is a specific location in the human genome where different people may carry different DNA letters. This SNP is situated within the WFDC11 gene, which stands for WAP Four-Disulfide Core Domain 11. In genomics, researchers track these variants to see if they correlate with specific physical traits or health outcomes. While the presence of a specific letter at this position is a normal part of human genetic diversity, scientists study it to understand how it might influence biological processes, such as the regulation of lipids in the bloodstream.
The Role of the WFDC11 Gene
The WFDC11 gene provides instructions for creating a protein that belongs to the WAP-type four-disulfide core domain family. Proteins in this family are characterized by a specific structural motif containing eight cysteine residues that form four disulfide bonds. This structure is often associated with protease inhibitor activity, meaning the protein may help regulate the breakdown of other proteins in the body. WFDC11 is part of a cluster of similar genes located on chromosome 20. While its exact physiological role in lipid metabolism is still being investigated, its classification as a protease inhibitor suggests it may play a role in complex signaling pathways that influence various metabolic functions, including the maintenance of cholesterol levels.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between rs77468106 and HDL cholesterol is derived from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). These studies scan the genomes of large populations to find statistical links between specific variants and measurable traits. The evidence for this particular variant is currently considered moderate. This means that while researchers have observed a correlation, the biological mechanism explaining how this specific SNP influences HDL levels is not yet fully understood. It is important to note that genetic associations are statistical in nature and do not imply a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Many factors, including diet, lifestyle, and other genetic variants, contribute to an individual's cholesterol profile, making the impact of a single SNP like rs77468106 only one small piece of a much larger puzzle.
Population Frequency
Information regarding the specific frequency of the rs77468106 variant across different global populations is currently limited in public databases. Genetic variants can vary significantly in frequency depending on ancestral background, with some being common in certain groups and rare in others. Because comprehensive data for this specific SNP is not widely recorded in major population genetics catalogs, it is difficult to provide a precise estimate of how common it is. As more large-scale genomic sequencing projects are completed, our understanding of the distribution of this variant across diverse populations will likely improve, providing better context for its prevalence.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have received information about your genotype for rs77468106, it is essential to view it as a statistical observation rather than a medical diagnosis. Genetic variants associated with traits like HDL cholesterol are rarely deterministic; they represent small shifts in probability rather than a guarantee of a specific health outcome. You cannot use this information to diagnose yourself or to make changes to medical treatments. If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels or cardiovascular health, the most effective approach is to consult with a healthcare professional. They can interpret your lipid panels in the context of your overall health history, lifestyle, and other clinical factors, providing guidance that is tailored specifically to your needs.
How common is this variant?
There is no specific population frequency data currently recorded for this variant in major public genomic databases.
Frequently asked questions
Does having the rs77468106 variant mean I have high cholesterol?
No, having a specific genotype for this variant does not mean you have high cholesterol. Genetic associations are statistical, and your actual cholesterol levels are influenced by a combination of many genes, your diet, physical activity, and other environmental factors.
Can I use this SNP to predict my risk of heart disease?
This SNP is associated with HDL cholesterol measurements, but it is not a diagnostic tool for heart disease. Cardiovascular risk is complex and should be assessed by a doctor using clinical tests like blood panels and physical exams.
Should I change my diet based on my rs77468106 genotype?
You should not make dietary or lifestyle changes based solely on a single genetic variant. Always consult with a registered dietitian or your primary care physician before making significant changes to your health regimen.
Where can I find more information about the WFDC11 gene?
You can find detailed information about the WFDC11 gene through resources like the NCBI Gene database or GeneCards. These platforms provide summaries of gene function, expression, and known clinical associations.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/1/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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