TMPRSS4 Gene

What is the TMPRSS4 gene?

TMPRSS4 encodes transmembrane serine protease 4, a protein involved in gut and airway serine protease / viral entry. It belongs to the Antiviral category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. TMPRSS4 is a type II transmembrane serine protease expressed in the gut and airway that can activate SARS-CoV-2 spike alongside TMPRSS2.

Biological role and pathway

TMPRSS4 is involved in the gut and airway serine protease / viral entry pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Viral Defense & Interferon Response 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 TMPRSS4 gene have been studied in relation to antiviral and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs2070261— TMPRSS4 variant

Conditions studied in relation to TMPRSS4

Research into TMPRSS4 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that TMPRSS4 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 TMPRSS4 and related genes in the viral defense & interferon response 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 Viral Defense & Interferon Response pathway

TMPRSS4 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