rs2066853
Variant in the AHR gene (Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor)
rs2066853 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the AHR gene, involved in xenobiotic sensing. Variants at this position have been studied in relation to immune function, metabolism, and chronic illness.
This page is for educational and informational purposes only. Not a diagnostic tool. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
What is the rs2066853 variant?
rs2066853 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the AHR (Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor) gene. It belongs to the Metabolism category and is part of the Gut-Brain Axis biological cluster. AHR is a ligand-activated transcription factor that senses xenobiotics, tryptophan metabolites (indoles), and other small molecules to regulate xenobiotic metabolism, immune cell differentiation, and circadian functions.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the AHR gene, which is involved in the xenobiotic sensing pathway. Genes within the Gut-Brain Axis 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 — particularly under conditions of physiological stress such as viral infection or prolonged illness.
rs2066853 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Tryptophan catabolism through AHR-activating pathways (kynurenine, indoles) is dysregulated in COVID-19 and Long COVID. AHR activation by microbial indoles maintains Th17/ILC3/Treg homeostasis; variants affecting AHR sensitivity may influence gut and systemic immune regulation in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: AHR
rs2066853 is one of 3 known variants in the AHR gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View AHR gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2066853
Research into AHR variants including rs2066853 has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply causation.
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 AHR and the rs2066853 variant.
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.
Other variants in the AHR gene
The following variants in AHR are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs2066853 variant in the AHR gene?
rs2066853 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the AHR (Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor) gene, which is involved in xenobiotic sensing. AHR is a ligand-activated transcription factor that senses xenobiotics, tryptophan metabolites (indoles), and other small molecules to regulate xenobiotic metabolism, immune cell differentiation, and circadian functions.
How may the rs2066853 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Tryptophan catabolism through AHR-activating pathways (kynurenine, indoles) is dysregulated in COVID-19 and Long COVID. AHR activation by microbial indoles maintains Th17/ILC3/Treg homeostasis; variants affecting AHR sensitivity may influence gut and systemic immune regulation in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2066853 variant?
Many consumer DNA tests such as 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage genotype common SNPs. ChronicDNA analyses your raw DNA file and reports on variants studied in relation to chronic illness, immune function, and metabolism. This is not a diagnostic service — results are informational and educational only.
Find out if you carry the rs2066853 variant
Upload your DNA data from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, or MyHeritage and receive a personalised report covering >80 genes relevant to Long COVID and ME/CFS.
Get Your Personalised DNA ReportInformational and educational only · Not a diagnostic tool · GDPR compliant
References
The following publications were used in compiling the research context for AHR and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 30082303
- [2]Nature
- [3]Cell Host & Microbe