AHR Gene

What is the AHR gene?

AHR encodes aryl hydrocarbon receptor, a protein involved in xenobiotic sensing. It belongs to the Metabolism category and is part of the Gut-Brain Axis biological cluster. AHR is a ligand-activated transcription factor that senses xenobiotics, tryptophan metabolites (indoles), and other small molecules to regulate xenobiotic metabolism, immune cell differentiation, and circadian functions.

Biological role and pathway

AHR is involved in the xenobiotic sensing pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Gut-Brain Axis cluster work together to maintain balanced function across interconnected biological systems.

Variants in genes within this pathway may influence an individual's predisposition to altered function in these systems — particularly under conditions of physiological stress such as viral infection or prolonged illness.

Known genetic variants

The following variants (SNPs) in the AHR gene have been studied in relation to metabolism and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs2066853— AHR variant
• rs4986826— AHR variant
• rs1007213— AHR variant

Conditions studied in relation to AHR

Research into AHR variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that AHR causes or treats any condition.

Genetic insights from DNA data

Consumer DNA files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage contain raw SNP data. When you upload your file to ChronicDNA, the analysis engine checks your genotype against a curated panel of 80+ genes selected for their relevance to Long COVID, ME/CFS, and connected biological pathways - some of which may include AHR and related genes in the gut-brain axis pathway.

The report is educational - it explains which variants you carry, what the research says about them, and how they fit into the biological pathways most relevant to chronic illness. Results are presented in plain English with appropriate scientific context, no medical jargon, no scare tactics. All results should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

Related genes in the Gut-Brain Axis pathway

AHR does not act in isolation. The following genes are functionally related and may be analysed together for a more complete picture of your genetic predispositions.

Frequently asked questions