rs2236418

Variant in the GAD2 gene (Glutamate Decarboxylase 2)

rs2236418 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the GAD2 gene, involved in GABA 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 rs2236418 variant?

rs2236418 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the GAD2 (Glutamate Decarboxylase 2) gene. It belongs to the Neurotransmitter category and is part of the Neurological & Cognitive Function biological cluster. GAD2 encodes glutamic acid decarboxylase 2 (GAD65), expressed in presynaptic terminals and pancreatic beta cells.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the GAD2 gene, which is involved in the GABA biosynthesis pathway. Genes within the Neurological & Cognitive Function 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.

rs2236418 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research

GAD2 autoantibodies in post-viral syndromes may impair GABAergic inhibition and contribute to hyperexcitability symptoms in Long COVID.

This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.

Parent gene: GAD2

rs2236418 is one of 1 known variant in the GAD2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

View GAD2 gene page →

Conditions studied in relation to rs2236418

Research into GAD2 variants including rs2236418 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 GAD2 and the rs2236418 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 rs2236418 variant in the GAD2 gene?

rs2236418 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the GAD2 (Glutamate Decarboxylase 2) gene, which is involved in GABA biosynthesis. GAD2 encodes glutamic acid decarboxylase 2 (GAD65), expressed in presynaptic terminals and pancreatic beta cells.

How may the rs2236418 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?

GAD2 autoantibodies in post-viral syndromes may impair GABAergic inhibition and contribute to hyperexcitability symptoms in Long COVID.

Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2236418 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 rs2236418 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.

Get Your Personalised DNA Report

Informational and educational only · Not a diagnostic tool · GDPR compliant

References

The following publications were used in compiling the research context for GAD2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.

  • [1]PMID: 33664986
  • [2]Nature Genetics
  • [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation