FADS1 Gene

What is the FADS1 gene?

FADS1 encodes fatty acid desaturase 1, a protein involved in PUFA synthesis. It belongs to the Lipid Metabolism category and is part of the Lipid Metabolism biological cluster. FADS1 encodes delta-5 desaturase, which catalyzes the synthesis of arachidonic acid and EPA in the polyunsaturated fatty acid pathway.

Biological role and pathway

FADS1 is involved in the PUFA synthesis pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Lipid Metabolism 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 FADS1 gene have been studied in relation to lipid metabolism and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs174537— FADS1 variant
• rs174548— FADS1 variant

Conditions studied in relation to FADS1

Research into FADS1 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that FADS1 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 FADS1 and related genes in the lipid metabolism 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 Lipid Metabolism pathway

FADS1 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