rs4684677
Variant in the GHRL gene (Ghrelin And Obestatin Prepropeptide)
rs4684677 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the GHRL gene, involved in appetite / growth hormone stimulation. 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 rs4684677 variant?
rs4684677 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the GHRL (Ghrelin And Obestatin Prepropeptide) gene. It belongs to the Neuroendocrine category and is part of the Autonomic Nervous System biological cluster. GHRL encodes ghrelin, the 'hunger hormone' produced by gastric enteroendocrine cells that stimulates appetite and GH secretion.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the GHRL gene, which is involved in the appetite / growth hormone stimulation pathway. Genes within the Autonomic Nervous System 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.
rs4684677 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Ghrelin has anti-inflammatory effects and promotes appetite; dysregulated ghrelin in Long COVID may contribute to anorexia, fatigue, and abnormal energy regulation.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: GHRL
rs4684677 is one of 2 known variants in the GHRL gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View GHRL gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4684677
Research into GHRL variants including rs4684677 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 GHRL and the rs4684677 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 GHRL gene
The following variants in GHRL are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4684677 variant in the GHRL gene?
rs4684677 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the GHRL (Ghrelin And Obestatin Prepropeptide) gene, which is involved in appetite / growth hormone stimulation. GHRL encodes ghrelin, the 'hunger hormone' produced by gastric enteroendocrine cells that stimulates appetite and GH secretion.
How may the rs4684677 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Ghrelin has anti-inflammatory effects and promotes appetite; dysregulated ghrelin in Long COVID may contribute to anorexia, fatigue, and abnormal energy regulation.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4684677 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 rs4684677 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 GHRL and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33664986
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Cell Metabolism