IFITM3 Gene

What is the IFITM3 gene?

IFITM3 encodes interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3, a protein involved in interferon-stimulated gene response. It belongs to the Viral Defense category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. IFITM3 is an interferon-induced protein that restricts viral entry by preventing fusion at the cell membrane.

Biological role and pathway

IFITM3 is involved in the interferon-stimulated gene response pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Viral Defense & Interferon Response 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 IFITM3 gene have been studied in relation to viral defense and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs12252— IFITM3 variant
• rs2109069— IFITM3 variant

Conditions studied in relation to IFITM3

Research into IFITM3 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that IFITM3 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 IFITM3 and related genes in the viral defense & interferon response 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 Viral Defense & Interferon Response pathway

IFITM3 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