rs2187668

Variant in the HLA-DQA1 gene (Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II DQ Alpha 1)

rs2187668 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the HLA-DQA1 gene, involved in MHC class II antigen presentation. 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 rs2187668 variant?

rs2187668 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the HLA-DQA1 (Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II DQ Alpha 1) gene. It belongs to the Immune Presentation category and is part of the HLA & Immune Presentation biological cluster. HLA-DQA1 encodes a component of the MHC class II molecule involved in presenting antigens to CD4+ T cells.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the HLA-DQA1 gene, which is involved in the MHC class II antigen presentation pathway. Genes within the HLA & Immune Presentation 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.

rs2187668 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research

HLA variants determine immune response specificity to SARS-CoV-2 antigens and may influence Long COVID susceptibility.

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

Parent gene: HLA-DQA1

rs2187668 is one of 1 known variant in the HLA-DQA1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

View HLA-DQA1 gene page →

Conditions studied in relation to rs2187668

Research into HLA-DQA1 variants including rs2187668 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 HLA-DQA1 and the rs2187668 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 rs2187668 variant in the HLA-DQA1 gene?

rs2187668 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the HLA-DQA1 (Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II DQ Alpha 1) gene, which is involved in MHC class II antigen presentation. HLA-DQA1 encodes a component of the MHC class II molecule involved in presenting antigens to CD4+ T cells.

How may the rs2187668 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?

HLA variants determine immune response specificity to SARS-CoV-2 antigens and may influence Long COVID susceptibility.

Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2187668 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 rs2187668 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 HLA-DQA1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.

  • [1]PMID: 33888513
  • [2]Nature Genetics
  • [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation