SOD2 Gene

What is the SOD2 gene?

SOD2 encodes superoxide dismutase 2, a protein involved in antioxidant defense. It belongs to the Oxidative Stress category and is part of the Oxidative Stress biological cluster. SOD2 encodes mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase, the primary defense enzyme against mitochondrial superoxide radicals.

Biological role and pathway

SOD2 is involved in the antioxidant defense pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Oxidative Stress 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 SOD2 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.

• rs4880— SOD2 variant

Conditions studied in relation to SOD2

Research into SOD2 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that SOD2 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 SOD2 and related genes in the oxidative stress 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 Oxidative Stress pathway

SOD2 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