IL8 Gene

What is the IL8 gene?

IL8 encodes interleukin 8 (cxcl8), a protein involved in neutrophil recruitment. It belongs to the Chemokine category and is part of the Chemokines biological cluster. IL8 (now officially CXCL8) encodes a potent neutrophil chemoattractant that is among the earliest cytokines released during infection.

Biological role and pathway

IL8 is involved in the neutrophil recruitment pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Chemokines 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 IL8 gene have been studied in relation to chemokine and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs4073— IL8 variant
• rs2227306— IL8 variant

Conditions studied in relation to IL8

Research into IL8 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that IL8 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 IL8 and related genes in the chemokines 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 Chemokines pathway

IL8 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