rs2741160
Variant in the DEFB1 gene (Defensin Beta 1)
rs2741160 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the DEFB1 gene, involved in antimicrobial defense. 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 rs2741160 variant?
rs2741160 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the DEFB1 (Defensin Beta 1) gene. It belongs to the Innate Immunity category and is part of the Gut-Brain Axis biological cluster. DEFB1 is a constitutively expressed antimicrobial peptide in epithelial cells of the gut, respiratory tract, and urogenital system. It has direct antimicrobial activity and functions as a chemokine for dendritic cells and T cells.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the DEFB1 gene, which is involved in the antimicrobial defense pathway. Genes within the Gut-Brain Axis 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.
rs2741160 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Defensin expression is dysregulated in COVID-19. DEFB1 genetic variants affecting its constitutive mucosal barrier activity may influence both susceptibility to COVID-19 and the mucosal immune homeostasis relevant to Long COVID gut symptoms.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: DEFB1
rs2741160 is one of 3 known variants in the DEFB1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View DEFB1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2741160
Research into DEFB1 variants including rs2741160 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 DEFB1 and the rs2741160 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 DEFB1 gene
The following variants in DEFB1 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs2741160 variant in the DEFB1 gene?
rs2741160 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the DEFB1 (Defensin Beta 1) gene, which is involved in antimicrobial defense. DEFB1 is a constitutively expressed antimicrobial peptide in epithelial cells of the gut, respiratory tract, and urogenital system. It has direct antimicrobial activity and functions as a chemokine for dendritic cells and T cells.
How may the rs2741160 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Defensin expression is dysregulated in COVID-19. DEFB1 genetic variants affecting its constitutive mucosal barrier activity may influence both susceptibility to COVID-19 and the mucosal immune homeostasis relevant to Long COVID gut symptoms.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2741160 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 rs2741160 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 DEFB1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 30099478
- [2]Nature Immunology
- [3]Mucosal Immunology