rs6265
Variant in the BDNF gene (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)
rs6265 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the BDNF gene, involved in neuroplasticity / TrkB / synaptic strength. 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 rs6265 variant?
rs6265 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene. It belongs to the Neurological category and is part of the Neurological & Cognitive Function biological cluster. BDNF encodes brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which activates TrkB to promote neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the BDNF gene, which is involved in the neuroplasticity / TrkB / synaptic strength pathway. Genes within the Neurological & Cognitive Function 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.
rs6265 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
BDNF is reduced in Long COVID and ME/CFS; BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) affects activity-dependent BDNF secretion and is associated with cognitive performance and susceptibility to mood disorders in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: BDNF
rs6265 is one of 2 known variants in the BDNF gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View BDNF gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs6265
Research into BDNF variants including rs6265 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 BDNF and the rs6265 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 BDNF gene
The following variants in BDNF are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs6265 variant in the BDNF gene?
rs6265 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene, which is involved in neuroplasticity / TrkB / synaptic strength. BDNF encodes brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which activates TrkB to promote neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function.
How may the rs6265 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
BDNF is reduced in Long COVID and ME/CFS; BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) affects activity-dependent BDNF secretion and is associated with cognitive performance and susceptibility to mood disorders in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs6265 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 rs6265 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.
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References
The following publications were used in compiling the research context for BDNF and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33664986
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Nature Neuroscience