Understanding rs8106922: A Genetic Variant Near the APOE Gene
The rs8106922 variant is a common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the genomic region surrounding the APOE gene. Research has investigated this variant for its potential association with Alzheimer's disease risk and cognitive health, often as a marker for specific genetic structures in this complex region.
What each genotype means
Common genetic profile
This genotype represents the major allele at this position. Research indicates that while this variant is located in the APOE region, its association with Alzheimer's disease risk is largely independent of the well-known APOE ε2/ε3/ε4 status. It is not a diagnostic marker and should not be used to predict individual health outcomes.
This is the most common genotype observed across most global populations.
Common genetic profile
This genotype represents a heterozygous state at this position. Studies have explored this variant as a marker for phylogenetic clades within the APOE region, but it does not independently alter Alzheimer's disease risk when accounting for established APOE genotypes. This result is not a medical diagnosis.
This genotype is found at moderate frequencies in many populations worldwide.
Common genetic profile
This genotype represents the minor allele at this position. While some initial studies suggested an association with reduced risk for Alzheimer's disease, this effect is not significant when adjusting for the primary APOE ε2/ε3/ε4 alleles. This finding does not provide actionable clinical information regarding disease risk.
This is a less common genotype compared to the C allele, with frequencies varying by ancestry.
What is rs8106922 and Where is it Located?
The rs8106922 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated on chromosome 19. It is located within the TOMM40 gene, which sits in close physical proximity to the well-studied APOE gene. Because these genes are located so close together on the chromosome, they are often inherited together in blocks, a phenomenon known as linkage disequilibrium. This makes it challenging for researchers to determine whether a specific association is driven by the rs8106922 variant itself, the TOMM40 gene, or the nearby APOE gene. In genetic studies, rs8106922 has been used as a proxy marker to help define specific phylogenetic clades, or groups of related genetic sequences, that separate different lengths of poly-T alleles in the TOMM40 region. Understanding its location is essential for interpreting how it relates to the broader genetic architecture of the APOE locus.
The Role of the APOE Region
The APOE gene is widely recognized as the strongest common genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease. It provides instructions for making a protein called apolipoprotein E, which is involved in the transport of cholesterol and other lipids in the brain. While the APOE ε4 allele is the most famous contributor to disease risk, the entire region surrounding it is highly complex and contains several other genes, including TOMM40. Research suggests that genetic variation in this entire neighborhood can influence brain health, amyloidosis, and cognitive decline. Because rs8106922 is located in this critical region, scientists study it to see if it provides independent information about disease risk or if it simply acts as a tag for the well-known APOE ε4 status. Current evidence indicates that while the region is vital, distinguishing the specific effects of individual variants like rs8106922 remains a focus of ongoing genomic research.
Research Associations and Evidence Strength
The evidence linking rs8106922 to Alzheimer's disease and cognitive traits is considered moderate. Many studies have examined this variant in the context of the Alzheimer’s Disease Genetics Consortium and other large-scale datasets. Some research has explored whether this variant is associated with lipid profiles or the risk of dementia in older populations, such as in the Women's Health Initiative Memory Study. However, a key challenge in this field is that many variants in the APOE region are not independent of the primary APOE ε2/ε3/ε4 genotypes. When researchers adjust their statistical models for these primary APOE alleles, the independent association of variants like rs8106922 often diminishes or disappears. Consequently, while rs8106922 is a useful tool for mapping the genetic structure of the region, it is not currently used as a standalone diagnostic tool for predicting Alzheimer's disease risk in clinical practice.
Population Frequency and Interpretation
The rs8106922 variant is classified as a common SNP, meaning it is found at a significant frequency across various human populations. Genetic databases like gnomAD provide data on how often the A and G alleles appear in different ancestral groups. Because it is common, most individuals will carry at least one copy of the variant. It is important to remember that having a common genetic variant does not equate to a medical diagnosis. Genetic associations observed in large population studies describe statistical trends across groups, not the fate of an individual. Because the science surrounding the APOE region is evolving, findings from one study may be refined by larger, more diverse datasets. Readers should view this information as a snapshot of current genomic research rather than a definitive prediction of personal health outcomes.
What You Can and Cannot Do With This Information
Information about genetic variants like rs8106922 is intended for educational purposes to help the public understand the complexity of human genetics. You cannot use this information to diagnose yourself with Alzheimer's disease or any other condition. Genetic risk is only one piece of a much larger puzzle that includes lifestyle, environment, and other genetic factors. If you are concerned about your cognitive health or family history, the most appropriate step is to consult with a healthcare professional or a genetic counselor. They can provide context based on your personal medical history and current clinical guidelines. Never make changes to your health regimen or medication based on genetic data without first discussing it with your clinician or pharmacist. Genetic research is a powerful tool for discovery, but it is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation and personalized care.
How common is this variant?
The rs8106922 variant is common across diverse ancestral populations, with both the A and G alleles appearing at significant frequencies in global datasets.
Frequently asked questions
Is rs8106922 a diagnostic test for Alzheimer's?
No, rs8106922 is not a diagnostic test. It is a genetic variant studied for its statistical association with Alzheimer's risk, but it does not determine whether an individual will develop the disease.
Does this variant mean I will get dementia?
Having a specific genotype for rs8106922 does not mean you will develop dementia. Alzheimer's disease is a complex condition influenced by many genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Should I get tested for this SNP?
There is no clinical recommendation to test for this specific SNP. If you have concerns about your cognitive health, you should speak with a doctor about clinical assessments rather than relying on individual genetic markers.
How does this relate to the APOE gene?
The rs8106922 variant is located very close to the APOE gene on chromosome 19. Because they are physically near each other, they are often studied together to understand the genetic architecture of the region.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/13/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Together with rs7412, the C allele at rs429358 establishes the APOE epsilon 4 haplotype, conferring dose-dependent susceptibility to late-onset Alzheimer disease and cardiovascular disease.