rs3808606
Variant in the IDO1 gene (Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1)
rs3808606 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IDO1 gene, involved in tryptophan catabolism. 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 rs3808606 variant?
rs3808606 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the IDO1 (Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1) gene. It belongs to the Neurotransmitter category and is part of the Neurological & Cognitive Function biological cluster. IDO1 encodes the primary enzyme catabolizing tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway, diverting it away from serotonin synthesis.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the IDO1 gene, which is involved in the tryptophan catabolism 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.
rs3808606 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
IDO1 activation by inflammatory cytokines depletes tryptophan for serotonin synthesis and generates neurotoxic kynurenines, contributing to Long COVID brain fog and depression.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: IDO1
rs3808606 is one of 2 known variants in the IDO1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View IDO1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs3808606
Research into IDO1 variants including rs3808606 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 IDO1 and the rs3808606 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 IDO1 gene
The following variants in IDO1 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs3808606 variant in the IDO1 gene?
rs3808606 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the IDO1 (Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1) gene, which is involved in tryptophan catabolism. IDO1 encodes the primary enzyme catabolizing tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway, diverting it away from serotonin synthesis.
How may the rs3808606 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
IDO1 activation by inflammatory cytokines depletes tryptophan for serotonin synthesis and generates neurotoxic kynurenines, contributing to Long COVID brain fog and depression.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs3808606 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 rs3808606 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 ReportInformational and educational only · Not a diagnostic tool · GDPR compliant
References
The following publications were used in compiling the research context for IDO1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 34316049
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation