rs4588
Variant in the GC gene (GC Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP))
rs4588 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the GC gene, involved in vitamin D transport. 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 rs4588 variant?
rs4588 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the GC (GC Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP)) gene. It belongs to the Metabolic category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. GC encodes vitamin D-binding protein (DBP), which transports vitamin D metabolites in blood and modulates vitamin D bioavailability.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the GC gene, which is involved in the vitamin D transport 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.
rs4588 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
GC/DBP variants affecting vitamin D transport and bioavailability may influence circulating vitamin D levels and immune function in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: GC
rs4588 is one of 3 known variants in the GC gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View GC gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4588
Research into GC variants including rs4588 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 GC and the rs4588 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 GC gene
The following variants in GC are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4588 variant in the GC gene?
rs4588 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the GC (GC Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP)) gene, which is involved in vitamin D transport. GC encodes vitamin D-binding protein (DBP), which transports vitamin D metabolites in blood and modulates vitamin D bioavailability.
How may the rs4588 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
GC/DBP variants affecting vitamin D transport and bioavailability may influence circulating vitamin D levels and immune function in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4588 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 rs4588 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 GC and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33387997
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]American Journal of Clinical Nutrition