rs4646
Variant in the CYP19A1 gene (Cytochrome P450 Family 19 Subfamily A Member 1 (Aromatase))
rs4646 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CYP19A1 gene, involved in estrogen biosynthesis. 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 rs4646 variant?
rs4646 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the CYP19A1 (Cytochrome P450 Family 19 Subfamily A Member 1 (Aromatase)) gene. It belongs to the Metabolic category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. CYP19A1 encodes aromatase, the enzyme that converts androgens (testosterone, androstenedione) to estrogens.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the CYP19A1 gene, which is involved in the estrogen biosynthesis pathway. Genes within the Metabolic Regulation 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.
rs4646 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Sex hormone levels affect immune function and COVID-19 severity; CYP19A1 variants affecting estrogen production may contribute to sex-based differences in Long COVID immune responses and symptom patterns.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: CYP19A1
rs4646 is one of 2 known variants in the CYP19A1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View CYP19A1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4646
Research into CYP19A1 variants including rs4646 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 CYP19A1 and the rs4646 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 CYP19A1 gene
The following variants in CYP19A1 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4646 variant in the CYP19A1 gene?
rs4646 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the CYP19A1 (Cytochrome P450 Family 19 Subfamily A Member 1 (Aromatase)) gene, which is involved in estrogen biosynthesis. CYP19A1 encodes aromatase, the enzyme that converts androgens (testosterone, androstenedione) to estrogens.
How may the rs4646 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Sex hormone levels affect immune function and COVID-19 severity; CYP19A1 variants affecting estrogen production may contribute to sex-based differences in Long COVID immune responses and symptom patterns.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4646 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 rs4646 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 CYP19A1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32296168
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Endocrinology