rs2256805
Variant in the CD8A gene (CD8 Alpha Chain)
rs2256805 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CD8A gene, involved in MHC class I cytotoxic T cell 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 rs2256805 variant?
rs2256805 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the CD8A (CD8 Alpha Chain) gene. It belongs to the Lymphocyte category and is part of the Lymphocyte Biology biological cluster. CD8A encodes the alpha chain of the CD8 co-receptor, expressed on cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK T cells, co-signaling with TCR at MHC class I.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the CD8A gene, which is involved in the MHC class I cytotoxic T cell signaling pathway. Genes within the Lymphocyte Biology 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.
rs2256805 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
CD8+ cytotoxic T cell responses are central to viral clearance; CD8+ T cell exhaustion observed in Long COVID may impair control of viral reservoirs.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: CD8A
rs2256805 is one of 1 known variant in the CD8A gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View CD8A gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2256805
Research into CD8A variants including rs2256805 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 CD8A and the rs2256805 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
What is the rs2256805 variant in the CD8A gene?
rs2256805 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the CD8A (CD8 Alpha Chain) gene, which is involved in MHC class I cytotoxic T cell signaling. CD8A encodes the alpha chain of the CD8 co-receptor, expressed on cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK T cells, co-signaling with TCR at MHC class I.
How may the rs2256805 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
CD8+ cytotoxic T cell responses are central to viral clearance; CD8+ T cell exhaustion observed in Long COVID may impair control of viral reservoirs.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2256805 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 rs2256805 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 CD8A and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 34316049
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation