What you carry at this position in your DNA and what research says about it.
Blood Lipid Levels: 10/10 evidence, 30 publications.
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Sample genotype (not yours): A/A
Higher Triglycerides and Cholesterol Risk
Presence of the A/A genotype is linked to elevated blood lipid levels. This genetic profile increases the risk of high triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and fatty liver disease.
What this genotype means: Elevated blood triglycerides; Higher LDL and total cholesterol; Increased risk of fatty liver disease.
Sample genotype (not yours): A/G
Moderately Elevated Triglycerides and Cholesterol
A heterozygous A/G genotype is associated with moderately increased blood lipid levels. This profile presents a slight increase in the risk of high triglycerides and fatty liver disease compared to the G/G genotype.
What this genotype means: Moderately elevated triglycerides; Slightly higher LDL cholesterol; Slightly increased fatty liver risk.
Sample genotype (not yours): G/G
Typical Triglycerides and Lower Cholesterol Risk
The G/G genotype is linked to optimal blood lipid levels. This profile is associated with lower triglycerides, lower LDL cholesterol, and a reduced risk of fatty liver disease.
What this genotype means: Lower blood triglycerides; Lower LDL and total cholesterol; Reduced risk of fatty liver disease.
Gene function and biological role
Gene Function: The TRIB1 gene encodes tribbles pseudokinase 1, a protein that plays a critical role in regulating hepatic lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health [1]. It acts as a scaffold protein, modulating key signaling pathways in the liver that control the synthesis and clearance of lipids [2]. Research shows that TRIB1 expression levels directly influence the secretion of very low-density lipoproteins and the clearance of plasma lipids [3]. Alterations in TRIB1 function are strongly linked to changes in blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, as well as the development of fatty liver disease [4].
Variant Impact: The rs17321515 variant is an intergenic genetic marker located near the TRIB1 gene that influences its expression levels [1]. The A allele of this variant is associated with reduced TRIB1 expression, which impairs the liver's ability to properly clear lipids from the bloodstream [2]. Consequently, individuals carrying the A allele tend to have significantly higher circulating levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol [5]. This genetic variation also impacts the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and coronary artery disease [4].
Key Insight: This variant acts as a genetic regulator of liver lipid clearance, directly impacting how efficiently the body processes dietary fats.
Location: TRIB1. Chromosome 8 · 8q24.13 · 125.5 Mb
Estimated prevalence by population
Global 27.1%; European 27.6%; African 20.1%; East Asian 22.9%; South Asian 42.3%; Americas 36.6%; Ashkenazi 40.1%; Finnish 28.3%; Middle Eastern 42.2%; Amish 11.9%.
Estimated AA genotype frequency.
Global 49.3%; European 49.9%; African 49.5%; East Asian 49.9%; South Asian 45.5%; Americas 47.8%; Ashkenazi 46.5%; Finnish 49.8%; Middle Eastern 45.5%; Amish 45.2%.
Estimated AG genotype frequency.
Global 23.7%; European 22.6%; African 30.4%; East Asian 27.2%; South Asian 12.2%; Americas 15.6%; Ashkenazi 13.5%; Finnish 21.9%; Middle Eastern 12.3%; Amish 42.9%.
Estimated GG genotype frequency.
Showing effects for A/A genotype
Cardiovascular & Metabolic
Lipids & Cholesterol
Triglycerides. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 18193043. Elevated Levels.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 9/10. Source: PMID 24386095. Elevated Levels.
Total Cholesterol. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 31217584. Elevated Levels.
Organ Systems
Liver Function & Disease
Fatty Liver Disease. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 34535985. ~1.3x Higher Risk.
Lifestyle, Fitness & Aging
Height & Body Size
Height. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36224396. Slightly Shorter.
Showing effects for A/G genotype
Triglycerides. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 18193043. Moderately Elevated.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 9/10. Source: PMID 24386095. Moderately Elevated.
Total Cholesterol. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 31217584. Moderately Elevated.
Fatty Liver Disease. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 34535985. Slightly Higher Risk.
Height. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36224396. Typical Height.
Showing effects for G/G genotype
Triglycerides. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 18193043. Typical Levels.
LDL Cholesterol. Evidence: 9/10. Source: PMID 24386095. Typical Levels.
Total Cholesterol. Evidence: 10/10. Source: PMID 31217584. Typical Levels.
Fatty Liver Disease. Evidence: 8/10. Source: PMID 34535985. Typical Risk.
Height. Evidence: 6/10. Source: PMID 36224396. Slightly Taller.
What this genotype means for the people who carry it
Sample genotype: AA (Homozygous)
Double copies of the A allele correlate strongly with elevated circulating triglycerides and total cholesterol [1]. This genetic profile is also linked to a higher risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, with studies showing an increased odds ratio of approximately 1.16 per A allele [2]. The elevated lipid levels associated with this genotype can contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver and the progression of arterial plaque [3]. Clinical studies have consistently identified this genotype as a risk factor for severe hypertriglyceridemia and coronary artery disease [4]. Over time, these elevated blood lipids can place additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Managing dietary fat intake and maintaining regular cardiovascular screenings are often recommended for individuals with this genetic profile. Regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet can play a crucial role in managing these genetic risks. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor a personalized cardiovascular wellness plan.
Elevated blood triglycerides; Higher LDL and total cholesterol; Increased risk of fatty liver disease.
Sample genotype: AG (Heterozygous)
Inheriting a single copy of the A allele is associated with intermediate levels of blood lipids, falling between the lower-risk G/G genotype and the higher-risk A/A genotype [1]. This genetic setup is linked to a moderate increase in circulating triglycerides and LDL cholesterol [2]. Individuals with this genotype also face a slightly elevated risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease compared to those with two protective G alleles [3]. The presence of the G allele provides some protective buffering, but the single A allele still exerts an upward pressure on lipid profiles [4]. This intermediate risk profile means that lifestyle factors can have a significant impact on overall lipid levels.
Moderately elevated triglycerides; Slightly higher LDL cholesterol; Slightly increased fatty liver risk.
Sample genotype: GG (Homozygous)
Two copies of the G allele are associated with the lowest levels of circulating triglycerides and LDL cholesterol at this locus [1]. This genotype is highly protective against severe hypertriglyceridemia and related cardiovascular complications [2]. Individuals with this genetic profile also have a significantly lower risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [3]. The G/G genotype is associated with higher expression of the TRIB1 gene, which enhances the liver's efficiency in clearing lipids from the blood [4]. This genetic advantage supports overall cardiovascular health and helps maintain healthy liver function. Even with this protective genetic baseline, maintaining a balanced lifestyle remains important for long-term health. Regular physical activity and a diet rich in whole foods can further optimize cardiovascular wellness. This genotype represents a favorable genetic baseline for lipid metabolism.
Lower blood triglycerides; Lower LDL and total cholesterol; Reduced risk of fatty liver disease.
Variants with shared genetic architecture
rs2954021 · TRIB1 Gene · Chr 8 · Heart and Liver Health
rs2954029 · TRIB1 Gene · Chr 8 · Heart Disease Risk
rs2954022 · TRIB1 Gene · Chr 8 · Blood Lipids
Newly identified loci that influence lipid concentrations and risk of coronary artery disease.
Genome-wide characterization of circulating metabolic biomarkers.
Genome-Wide Association Study of NAFLD Using Electronic Health Records.
Genetic analyses of diverse populations improves discovery for complex traits.
Content updated August 2026.
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