MC4R Gene

What is the MC4R gene?

MC4R encodes melanocortin 4 receptor, a protein involved in energy homeostasis / HPA axis. It belongs to the Neuroendocrine category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. MC4R encodes the melanocortin-4 receptor in the hypothalamus, a key regulator of energy balance and food intake.

Biological role and pathway

MC4R is involved in the energy homeostasis / HPA axis pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Metabolic Regulation 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 MC4R gene have been studied in relation to neuroendocrine and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs17782313— MC4R variant
• rs2229616— MC4R variant

Conditions studied in relation to MC4R

Research into MC4R variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that MC4R 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 MC4R and related genes in the metabolic regulation 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 Metabolic Regulation pathway

MC4R 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