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Snips about SNPs: Low LDL Cholesterol

Low LDL cholesterol throughout life and a decreased risk of heart disease? Sign me up! No, this isn’t the latest pill from a pharmaceutical company, but a genetic variant that some people have.

The PCSK9 gene codes for an enzyme that is important in controlling the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Some people carry a genetic variant in the PCSK9 gene that decreases their cholesterol levels. This is also associated with a decreased risk of heart disease!

Check your genetic data for rs11591147 R46L (23andMe v4, v5):

  • G/G: typical
  • G/T: decreased LDL-cholesterol, 30% lower risk of heart disease[ref][ref]
  • T/T: decreased LDL-cholesterol, > 30% lower risk of heart disease

Members: Your genotype for rs11591147 is .

Want to learn more about other PCSK9 genetic variants? Check out the full article on PCSK9. 

 

*SNP stands for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism, which is when one of the nucleotide bases (the A, C, G, or Ts) is replaced by a different nucleotide base in a gene. 

Want more quick bits about your genes? Read through all the Snips about SNPs

 


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About the Author:
Debbie Moon is the founder of Genetic Lifehacks. Fascinated by the connections between genes, diet, and health, her goal is to help you understand how to apply genetics to your diet and lifestyle decisions. Debbie has a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. Debbie combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to help you understand how genetic differences impact your optimal health.