rs4813
Variant in the CACNA1A gene (Calcium Voltage-Gated Channel Subunit Alpha1 A)
rs4813 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CACNA1A gene, involved in calcium channel signaling. 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 rs4813 variant?
rs4813 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the CACNA1A (Calcium Voltage-Gated Channel Subunit Alpha1 A) gene. It belongs to the Pain Sensory category and is part of the Pain & Sensory Processing biological cluster. CACNA1A encodes the Cav2.1 (P/Q-type) voltage-gated calcium channel, critical for neurotransmitter release at central and peripheral synapses.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the CACNA1A gene, which is involved in the calcium channel signaling pathway. Genes within the Pain & Sensory Processing 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.
rs4813 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
CACNA1A variants affect synaptic calcium signaling and neurotransmitter release; dysfunction may contribute to migraine and neurological symptoms in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: CACNA1A
rs4813 is one of 2 known variants in the CACNA1A gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View CACNA1A gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4813
Research into CACNA1A variants including rs4813 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 CACNA1A and the rs4813 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 CACNA1A gene
The following variants in CACNA1A are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4813 variant in the CACNA1A gene?
rs4813 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the CACNA1A (Calcium Voltage-Gated Channel Subunit Alpha1 A) gene, which is involved in calcium channel signaling. CACNA1A encodes the Cav2.1 (P/Q-type) voltage-gated calcium channel, critical for neurotransmitter release at central and peripheral synapses.
How may the rs4813 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
CACNA1A variants affect synaptic calcium signaling and neurotransmitter release; dysfunction may contribute to migraine and neurological symptoms in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4813 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 rs4813 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 CACNA1A and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32272069
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation