rs4073
Variant in the CXCL8 gene (C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (IL-8))
rs4073 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CXCL8 gene, involved in neutrophil recruitment. 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 rs4073 variant?
rs4073 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the CXCL8 (C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (IL-8)) gene. It belongs to the Immune Signaling category and is part of the Immune System & Inflammation biological cluster. CXCL8 encodes IL-8, the most potent neutrophil chemoattractant, produced by macrophages, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells at inflammatory sites.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the CXCL8 gene, which is involved in the neutrophil recruitment pathway. Genes within the Immune System & Inflammation 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.
rs4073 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
IL-8/CXCL8 is markedly elevated in COVID-19 and remains elevated in Long COVID; it is one of the most consistent biomarkers of persistent neutrophil activation and inflammation.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: CXCL8
rs4073 is one of 2 known variants in the CXCL8 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View CXCL8 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4073
Research into CXCL8 variants including rs4073 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 CXCL8 and the rs4073 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 CXCL8 gene
The following variants in CXCL8 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4073 variant in the CXCL8 gene?
rs4073 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the CXCL8 (C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (IL-8)) gene, which is involved in neutrophil recruitment. CXCL8 encodes IL-8, the most potent neutrophil chemoattractant, produced by macrophages, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells at inflammatory sites.
How may the rs4073 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
IL-8/CXCL8 is markedly elevated in COVID-19 and remains elevated in Long COVID; it is one of the most consistent biomarkers of persistent neutrophil activation and inflammation.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4073 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 rs4073 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 CXCL8 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32296168
- [2]Nature Medicine
- [3]Journal of Immunology