rs12979860
Variant in the IFNL3 gene (Interferon Lambda 3 (IL-28B))
rs12979860 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IFNL3 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 rs12979860 variant?
rs12979860 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the IFNL3 (Interferon Lambda 3 (IL-28B)) gene. It belongs to the Viral Defense category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. IFNL3 encodes interferon lambda-3 (IL-28B), a type III mucosal interferon important for viral clearance in the respiratory tract.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the IFNL3 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.
rs12979860 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
IFNL3 rs12979860 is the most replicated pharmacogenetic variant predicting interferon responses; variants may influence Long COVID severity and recovery.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: IFNL3
rs12979860 is one of 2 known variants in the IFNL3 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View IFNL3 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs12979860
Research into IFNL3 variants including rs12979860 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 IFNL3 and the rs12979860 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 IFNL3 gene
The following variants in IFNL3 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs12979860 variant in the IFNL3 gene?
rs12979860 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the IFNL3 (Interferon Lambda 3 (IL-28B)) gene, which is involved in type III interferon response. IFNL3 encodes interferon lambda-3 (IL-28B), a type III mucosal interferon important for viral clearance in the respiratory tract.
How may the rs12979860 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
IFNL3 rs12979860 is the most replicated pharmacogenetic variant predicting interferon responses; variants may influence Long COVID severity and recovery.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs12979860 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 rs12979860 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 IFNL3 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32972995
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation