rs1549596

What is the rs1549596 variant?

rs1549596 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the ISG15 (ISG15 Ubiquitin Like Modifier) gene. It belongs to the Antiviral category and is part of the Viral Defense & Interferon Response biological cluster. ISG15 encodes an interferon-stimulated ubiquitin-like modifier that conjugates to viral and host proteins, restricting viral replication.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the ISG15 gene, which is involved in the ISGylation antiviral defense 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.

Parent gene: ISG15

rs1549596 is one of 1 known variant in the ISG15 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

Conditions studied in relation to rs1549596

Research into ISG15 variants including rs1549596 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 ISG15 and the rs1549596 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