rs8103142
Variant in the IFNL1 gene (Interferon Lambda 1 (IL-29))
rs8103142 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IFNL1 gene, involved in type III interferon response. 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 rs8103142 variant?
rs8103142 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the IFNL1 (Interferon Lambda 1 (IL-29)) gene. It belongs to the Viral Defense category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. IFNL1 encodes interferon lambda-1 (IL-29), a type III interferon primarily acting at mucosal surfaces to restrict viral infection.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the IFNL1 gene, which is involved in the type III interferon response pathway. Genes within the Viral Defense & Interferon Response 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.
rs8103142 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Type III interferon responses at respiratory mucosal surfaces may influence initial SARS-CoV-2 clearance and Long COVID susceptibility.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: IFNL1
rs8103142 is one of 1 known variant in the IFNL1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View IFNL1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs8103142
Research into IFNL1 variants including rs8103142 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 IFNL1 and the rs8103142 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 rs8103142 variant in the IFNL1 gene?
rs8103142 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the IFNL1 (Interferon Lambda 1 (IL-29)) gene, which is involved in type III interferon response. IFNL1 encodes interferon lambda-1 (IL-29), a type III interferon primarily acting at mucosal surfaces to restrict viral infection.
How may the rs8103142 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Type III interferon responses at respiratory mucosal surfaces may influence initial SARS-CoV-2 clearance and Long COVID susceptibility.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs8103142 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.
Related articles
- Long COVID Genetic Testing: What Your DNA Can Show
Can long COVID genetic testing help? Learn what consumer DNA tests can and cannot reveal, and how raw data links to viral entry and interferon genes.
- Long COVID Genetics: What Host DNA Research Suggests
A plain-English guide to long COVID genetics: how genes for viral entry, interferon signaling and immune clearance may shape risk and recovery.
- Why Does Long COVID Happen? Causes and Genetics
Why does Long COVID happen? Explore leading theories, from viral persistence to microclots, and how genes like ACE2 and IFNL3 may play a role.
Find out if you carry the rs8103142 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 IFNL1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32972995
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation