rs17879961
Variant in the CHEK2 gene (Checkpoint Kinase 2)
rs17879961 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CHEK2 gene, involved in DNA damage checkpoint 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 rs17879961 variant?
rs17879961 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the CHEK2 (Checkpoint Kinase 2) gene. It belongs to the Dna Repair category and is part of the DNA Repair biological cluster. CHEK2 encodes a checkpoint kinase that phosphorylates BRCA1, CDC25 and p53 in response to DNA damage, halting cell cycle progression.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the CHEK2 gene, which is involved in the DNA damage checkpoint signaling pathway. Genes within the DNA Repair 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.
rs17879961 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
CHEK2-mediated DNA damage response may influence cellular senescence and inflammation driven by persistent oxidative stress in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: CHEK2
rs17879961 is one of 2 known variants in the CHEK2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View CHEK2 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs17879961
Research into CHEK2 variants including rs17879961 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 CHEK2 and the rs17879961 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 CHEK2 gene
The following variants in CHEK2 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs17879961 variant in the CHEK2 gene?
rs17879961 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the CHEK2 (Checkpoint Kinase 2) gene, which is involved in DNA damage checkpoint signaling. CHEK2 encodes a checkpoint kinase that phosphorylates BRCA1, CDC25 and p53 in response to DNA damage, halting cell cycle progression.
How may the rs17879961 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
CHEK2-mediated DNA damage response may influence cellular senescence and inflammation driven by persistent oxidative stress in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs17879961 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 rs17879961 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 CHEK2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 26014458
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation