rs4958847
Variant in the IRGM gene (Immunity Related GTPase M)
rs4958847 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IRGM gene, involved in xenophagy / intracellular pathogen clearance. 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 rs4958847 variant?
rs4958847 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the IRGM (Immunity Related GTPase M) gene. It belongs to the Autophagy category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. IRGM encodes an immunity-related GTPase that promotes autophagy of intracellular pathogens (xenophagy).
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the IRGM gene, which is involved in the xenophagy / intracellular pathogen clearance 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.
rs4958847 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
IRGM facilitates autophagic clearance of intracellular pathogens; variants affecting IRGM expression may impair xenophagy of SARS-CoV-2 components and contribute to viral persistence in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: IRGM
rs4958847 is one of 2 known variants in the IRGM gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View IRGM gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4958847
Research into IRGM variants including rs4958847 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 IRGM and the rs4958847 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 IRGM gene
The following variants in IRGM are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4958847 variant in the IRGM gene?
rs4958847 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the IRGM (Immunity Related GTPase M) gene, which is involved in xenophagy / intracellular pathogen clearance. IRGM encodes an immunity-related GTPase that promotes autophagy of intracellular pathogens (xenophagy).
How may the rs4958847 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
IRGM facilitates autophagic clearance of intracellular pathogens; variants affecting IRGM expression may impair xenophagy of SARS-CoV-2 components and contribute to viral persistence in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4958847 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
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- 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 rs4958847 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 IRGM and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 34316049
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Nature Immunology