SRD5A1 Gene

What is the SRD5A1 gene?

SRD5A1 encodes steroid 5 alpha-reductase 1, a protein involved in DHT synthesis. It belongs to the Hormonal category and is part of the Hormonal Regulation biological cluster. SRD5A1 encodes steroid 5-alpha reductase type 1, which converts testosterone to the more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone.

Biological role and pathway

SRD5A1 is involved in the DHT synthesis pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Hormonal 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 SRD5A1 gene have been studied in relation to hormonal and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs248793— SRD5A1 variant

Conditions studied in relation to SRD5A1

Research into SRD5A1 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that SRD5A1 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 SRD5A1 and related genes in the hormonal 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 Hormonal Regulation pathway

SRD5A1 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