rs2071166
Variant in the GJA1 gene (Gap Junction Protein Alpha 1 (Connexin 43))
rs2071166 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the GJA1 gene, involved in gap junction / intercellular communication. 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 rs2071166 variant?
rs2071166 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the GJA1 (Gap Junction Protein Alpha 1 (Connexin 43)) gene. It belongs to the Neurological category and is part of the Coagulation & Microcirculation biological cluster. GJA1 encodes connexin 43, the most ubiquitous gap junction protein, found in the heart, astrocytes, vascular endothelium, and many other tissues.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the GJA1 gene, which is involved in the gap junction / intercellular communication pathway. Genes within the Coagulation & Microcirculation 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.
rs2071166 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Connexin 43 gap junctions mediate cell-to-cell electrical and chemical communication; disruption by SARS-CoV-2 may affect cardiac conduction, astrocyte coupling, and vascular coordination in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: GJA1
rs2071166 is one of 1 known variant in the GJA1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View GJA1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2071166
Research into GJA1 variants including rs2071166 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 GJA1 and the rs2071166 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 rs2071166 variant in the GJA1 gene?
rs2071166 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the GJA1 (Gap Junction Protein Alpha 1 (Connexin 43)) gene, which is involved in gap junction / intercellular communication. GJA1 encodes connexin 43, the most ubiquitous gap junction protein, found in the heart, astrocytes, vascular endothelium, and many other tissues.
How may the rs2071166 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Connexin 43 gap junctions mediate cell-to-cell electrical and chemical communication; disruption by SARS-CoV-2 may affect cardiac conduction, astrocyte coupling, and vascular coordination in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2071166 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 rs2071166 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 GJA1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32966261
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Circulation