MT1A Gene

What is the MT1A gene?

MT1A encodes metallothionein 1a, a protein involved in metal detoxification / zinc and copper homeostasis. It belongs to the Oxidative Stress category and is part of the Detox & Medication Sensitivity biological cluster. MT1A encodes metallothionein 1A, a small cysteine-rich protein that sequesters zinc, copper, and cadmium, providing metal detoxification and antioxidant protection.

Biological role and pathway

MT1A is involved in the metal detoxification / zinc and copper homeostasis pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Detox & Medication Sensitivity 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 MT1A gene have been studied in relation to oxidative stress and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs11076161— MT1A variant

Conditions studied in relation to MT1A

Research into MT1A variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that MT1A 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 MT1A and related genes in the detox & medication sensitivity 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 Detox & Medication Sensitivity pathway

MT1A 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