rs1981844

Variant in the GDNF gene (Glial Cell Line Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

rs1981844 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the GDNF gene, involved in dopaminergic and motor neuron survival. 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 rs1981844 variant?

rs1981844 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the GDNF (Glial Cell Line Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene. It belongs to the Neuroplasticity category and is part of the Neurological & Cognitive Function biological cluster. GDNF encodes a neurotrophic factor that promotes survival of dopaminergic, sympathetic, and motor neurons.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the GDNF gene, which is involved in the dopaminergic and motor neuron survival 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.

rs1981844 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research

GDNF may protect dopaminergic neurons and support autonomic neuronal integrity relevant to Long COVID neurological and autonomic features.

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

Parent gene: GDNF

rs1981844 is one of 1 known variant in the GDNF gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

View GDNF gene page →

Conditions studied in relation to rs1981844

Research into GDNF variants including rs1981844 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 GDNF and the rs1981844 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 rs1981844 variant in the GDNF gene?

rs1981844 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the GDNF (Glial Cell Line Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene, which is involved in dopaminergic and motor neuron survival. GDNF encodes a neurotrophic factor that promotes survival of dopaminergic, sympathetic, and motor neurons.

How may the rs1981844 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?

GDNF may protect dopaminergic neurons and support autonomic neuronal integrity relevant to Long COVID neurological and autonomic features.

Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs1981844 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 rs1981844 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 GDNF and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.

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