OPRM1 Gene

What is the OPRM1 gene?

OPRM1 encodes opioid receptor mu 1, a protein involved in endogenous opioid pain modulation. It belongs to the Pain Sensory category and is part of the Pain & Sensory Processing biological cluster. OPRM1 encodes the mu-opioid receptor, the primary target for endogenous and exogenous opioids in pain relief.

Biological role and pathway

OPRM1 is involved in the endogenous opioid pain modulation pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Pain & Sensory Processing 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 OPRM1 gene have been studied in relation to pain sensory and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs1799971— OPRM1 variant
• rs563649— OPRM1 variant

Conditions studied in relation to OPRM1

Research into OPRM1 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that OPRM1 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 OPRM1 and related genes in the pain & sensory processing 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 Pain & Sensory Processing pathway

OPRM1 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