PAD4 Gene

What is the PAD4 gene?

PAD4 encodes peptidyl arginine deiminase 4, a protein involved in neutrophil extracellular traps. It belongs to the Innate Immunity category and is part of the Coagulation & Vascular biological cluster. PAD4 catalyzes citrullination of histones (H3Cit4) during NETosis, converting arginine residues to citrulline. This modification is essential for chromatin decondensation and NET release by activated neutrophils.

Biological role and pathway

PAD4 is involved in the neutrophil extracellular traps pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Coagulation & Vascular 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 PAD4 gene have been studied in relation to innate immunity and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs2240340— PAD4 variant
• rs874881— PAD4 variant
• rs1748033— PAD4 variant

Conditions studied in relation to PAD4

Research into PAD4 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that PAD4 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 PAD4 and related genes in the coagulation & vascular 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 Coagulation & Vascular pathway

PAD4 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