rs7251
Variant in the IRF3 gene (Interferon Regulatory Factor 3)
rs7251 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IRF3 gene, involved in interferon signaling. 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 rs7251 variant?
rs7251 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the IRF3 (Interferon Regulatory Factor 3) gene. It belongs to the Innate Immunity category and is part of the Innate Immunity & Interferons biological cluster. IRF3 is a transcription factor activated by viral RNA sensing through RIG-I/MDA5/STING pathways. Upon phosphorylation, IRF3 dimerizes, translocates to the nucleus, and drives type I interferon and ISG expression.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the IRF3 gene, which is involved in the interferon signaling pathway. Genes within the Innate Immunity & Interferons 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.
rs7251 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
IRF3 is a central hub of antiviral interferon signaling. SARS-CoV-2 encodes multiple IRF3 antagonists. IRF3 variants or epigenetic changes affecting its inducibility may explain impaired initial interferon responses that allow viral persistence and Long COVID development.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: IRF3
rs7251 is one of 3 known variants in the IRF3 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View IRF3 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs7251
Research into IRF3 variants including rs7251 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 IRF3 and the rs7251 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 IRF3 gene
The following variants in IRF3 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs7251 variant in the IRF3 gene?
rs7251 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the IRF3 (Interferon Regulatory Factor 3) gene, which is involved in interferon signaling. IRF3 is a transcription factor activated by viral RNA sensing through RIG-I/MDA5/STING pathways. Upon phosphorylation, IRF3 dimerizes, translocates to the nucleus, and drives type I interferon and ISG expression.
How may the rs7251 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
IRF3 is a central hub of antiviral interferon signaling. SARS-CoV-2 encodes multiple IRF3 antagonists. IRF3 variants or epigenetic changes affecting its inducibility may explain impaired initial interferon responses that allow viral persistence and Long COVID development.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs7251 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 rs7251 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 IRF3 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33007267
- [2]Nature
- [3]Cell