rs174537
Variant in the FADS1 gene (Fatty Acid Desaturase 1)
rs174537 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the FADS1 gene, involved in PUFA synthesis. 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 rs174537 variant?
rs174537 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the FADS1 (Fatty Acid Desaturase 1) gene. It belongs to the Lipid Metabolism category and is part of the Lipid Metabolism biological cluster. FADS1 encodes delta-5 desaturase, which catalyzes the synthesis of arachidonic acid and EPA in the polyunsaturated fatty acid pathway.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the FADS1 gene, which is involved in the PUFA synthesis pathway. Genes within the Lipid Metabolism 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.
rs174537 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
FADS1 variants influence the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids produced from arachidonic acid, relevant to Long COVID inflammatory biology.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: FADS1
rs174537 is one of 2 known variants in the FADS1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View FADS1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs174537
Research into FADS1 variants including rs174537 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 FADS1 and the rs174537 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 FADS1 gene
The following variants in FADS1 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs174537 variant in the FADS1 gene?
rs174537 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the FADS1 (Fatty Acid Desaturase 1) gene, which is involved in PUFA synthesis. FADS1 encodes delta-5 desaturase, which catalyzes the synthesis of arachidonic acid and EPA in the polyunsaturated fatty acid pathway.
How may the rs174537 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
FADS1 variants influence the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids produced from arachidonic acid, relevant to Long COVID inflammatory biology.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs174537 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 rs174537 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 FADS1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33153018
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation