rs8259

What is the rs8259 variant?

rs8259 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the BSG (Basigin (CD147)) gene. It belongs to the Antiviral category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. BSG encodes CD147/basigin, a multifunctional glycoprotein proposed as a co-receptor for SARS-CoV-2 spike binding via the cyclophilin pathway.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the BSG gene, which is involved in the SARS-CoV-2 co-receptor / cyclophilin binding pathway. 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 — particularly under conditions of physiological stress such as viral infection or prolonged illness.

Parent gene: BSG

rs8259 is one of 1 known variant in the BSG gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

Conditions studied in relation to rs8259

Research into BSG variants including rs8259 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 BSG and the rs8259 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.

Frequently asked questions

Related articles

• Long COVID Genetic Testing: What Your DNA Can Show

  Can long COVID genetic testing help? Learn what consumer DNA tests can and cannot reveal, and how raw data links to viral entry and interferon genes.

• Long COVID Genetics: What Host DNA Research Suggests

  A plain-English guide to long COVID genetics: how genes for viral entry, interferon signaling and immune clearance may shape risk and recovery.

• Why Does Long COVID Happen? Causes and Genetics

  Why does Long COVID happen? Explore leading theories, from viral persistence to microclots, and how genes like ACE2 and IFNL3 may play a role.