CD44 Gene

What is the CD44 gene?

CD44 encodes cd44 molecule (homing cell adhesion molecule), a protein involved in cell adhesion / hyaluronan signaling. It belongs to the Immune Signaling category and is part of the Immune System & Inflammation biological cluster. CD44 encodes a cell surface glycoprotein receptor for hyaluronan and osteopontin, involved in cell adhesion, migration, and leukocyte homing.

Biological role and pathway

CD44 is involved in the cell adhesion / hyaluronan signaling pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Immune System & Inflammation 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 CD44 gene have been studied in relation to immune signaling and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs13347— CD44 variant

Conditions studied in relation to CD44

Research into CD44 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that CD44 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 CD44 and related genes in the immune system & inflammation 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 Immune System & Inflammation pathway

CD44 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