ALB rs79047363: Understanding This Albumin Gene Variant
The rs79047363 variant is a specific change located within the ALB gene, which encodes serum albumin, the most abundant protein in human blood. This variant is primarily associated with the presence of alloalbumins, which are structural variants of the albumin protein.
What each genotype means
Common albumin variant
This is the most frequently observed genotype for this position in the ALB gene. It is considered the reference sequence in many genomic databases and is not typically associated with clinical albumin-related disorders.
This is the most common genotype found across global populations.
Rare albumin variant
This genotype represents a specific change in the albumin gene sequence. It has been documented in clinical databases in association with specific albumin variants, such as Albumin Tochigi, which may alter protein structure or function.
This genotype is rare and typically identified in clinical settings rather than the general population.
Rare albumin variant
This genotype represents a specific change in the albumin gene sequence. It has been documented in clinical databases in association with specific albumin variants, such as Albumin Malmo-5, which may alter protein structure or function.
This genotype is rare and typically identified in clinical settings rather than the general population.
Heterozygous albumin variant
This genotype indicates that one copy of the gene carries the common sequence while the other carries a variant associated with specific albumin protein changes. The clinical significance depends on the specific functional impact of the variant allele, which can vary.
This genotype is observed at very low frequencies in the general population.
Heterozygous albumin variant
This genotype indicates that one copy of the gene carries the common sequence while the other carries a variant associated with specific albumin protein changes. The clinical significance depends on the specific functional impact of the variant allele, which can vary.
This genotype is observed at very low frequencies in the general population.
What is rs79047363?
The rs79047363 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located on chromosome 4 within the ALB gene. In genomic databases, it is identified by its rsID, which serves as a unique label for researchers to track this specific position in the human genome. This variant represents a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to the production of altered forms of the albumin protein. Because it is situated within the coding region of the gene, it is categorized as a variant that may influence the structure of the resulting protein product. Genomic studies track such variants to understand how minor changes in DNA can lead to observable differences in protein characteristics, such as those seen in various populations where specific albumin variants have been identified and studied.
The Role of the ALB Gene
The ALB gene provides instructions for making serum albumin, a protein that circulates in the bloodstream. Albumin is essential for maintaining colloid osmotic pressure, which prevents fluid from leaking out of blood vessels into surrounding tissues. Beyond this, it acts as a versatile carrier protein, binding to and transporting a wide array of substances, including hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin, and various medications. By sequestering these molecules, albumin helps regulate their concentration and availability in the body. The gene is highly expressed in the liver, where the protein is synthesized before being secreted into the plasma. Because of its central role in homeostasis and drug transport, variations in the ALB gene are of significant interest in clinical research, particularly regarding how they might affect the binding and distribution of therapeutic drugs or endogenous compounds.
Research and Clinical Associations
Research into rs79047363 has linked this variant to the presence of specific alloalbumins, such as Albumin Tochigi and Albumin Malmo-5. Alloalbuminemia is a condition characterized by the presence of a structurally abnormal albumin protein in the blood. These variants are often discovered during routine clinical testing when an unusual double-peak or 'bisalbuminemia' is observed in serum protein electrophoresis. The evidence for this association is derived from studies of protein structure and genetic analysis in individuals who exhibit these distinct albumin forms. While these variants are documented in clinical databases, they are generally considered to be rare findings. It is important to note that the presence of an alloalbumin is typically a benign biochemical finding and does not necessarily indicate a disease state or a requirement for medical intervention.
Population Frequency and Interpretation
The frequency of the rs79047363 variant is variable and generally low across global populations. Because it is associated with specific, rare structural variants of albumin, it is not a common polymorphism found in the general population at high frequencies. Genomic databases indicate that the reference allele is the most common, while the alternative alleles associated with alloalbumins are found much less frequently. When interpreting genetic information, it is crucial to understand that the presence of a rare variant does not equate to a diagnosis of a health condition. Genetic data provides a snapshot of one's biological blueprint, but it must be interpreted within the context of an individual's overall health and clinical history. If you have questions about your genetic results or how they relate to your health, you should discuss them with a qualified healthcare provider or a genetic counselor.
How common is this variant?
The rs79047363 variant is rare in the general population, with specific alternative alleles appearing at very low frequencies across different ancestral groups.
Frequently asked questions
What is bisalbuminemia?
Bisalbuminemia is a condition where two different forms of albumin are present in the blood, often appearing as two distinct bands on a protein electrophoresis test. It is usually a benign, inherited trait caused by genetic variants like those in the ALB gene.
Does rs79047363 cause health problems?
The variant rs79047363 is associated with the production of alloalbumins, which are structural variants of the albumin protein. These are typically considered benign biochemical findings and are not known to cause significant health issues.
Should I be worried if I have this variant?
Finding this variant is generally not a cause for concern, as it is typically associated with harmless structural variations in the albumin protein. If you have concerns about your lab results, you should consult with your physician to discuss what they mean for your health.
How is this variant detected?
This variant is typically identified through genetic sequencing or inferred from clinical findings like bisalbuminemia observed during routine blood protein testing. It is not a standard test for the general population.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 9/15/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
Curious what your genotype is for rs79047363?
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 — $29