CX3CR1 Gene

What is the CX3CR1 gene?

CX3CR1 encodes c-x3-c motif chemokine receptor 1 (fractalkine receptor), a protein involved in microglial homeostasis / NK and T cell migration. It belongs to the Immune Signaling category and is part of the Neurological & Cognitive Function biological cluster. CX3CR1 encodes the fractalkine receptor, the primary chemokine receptor on microglia, NK cells, and monocytes that mediates tissue surveillance.

Biological role and pathway

CX3CR1 is involved in the microglial homeostasis / NK and T cell migration pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Neurological & Cognitive Function 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 CX3CR1 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.

• rs3732378— CX3CR1 variant
• rs3732379— CX3CR1 variant

Conditions studied in relation to CX3CR1

Research into CX3CR1 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that CX3CR1 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 CX3CR1 and related genes in the neurological & cognitive function 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 Neurological & Cognitive Function pathway

CX3CR1 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