rs4303171
Variant in the LCAT gene (Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase)
rs4303171 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the LCAT gene, involved in HDL maturation. 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 rs4303171 variant?
rs4303171 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the LCAT (Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase) gene. It belongs to the Metabolism category and is part of the Mitochondrial & Metabolic biological cluster. LCAT esterifies free cholesterol on nascent HDL particles, enabling HDL maturation to large, spherical HDL2/3. LCAT deficiency (Fish eye disease, familial LCAT deficiency) causes extremely low HDL with corneal opacities.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the LCAT gene, which is involved in the HDL maturation pathway. Genes within the Mitochondrial & Metabolic 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.
rs4303171 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
LCAT is required for HDL particle maturation and reverse cholesterol transport efficacy. Impaired LCAT activity through variants may contribute to the dysfunctional, low HDL observed in Long COVID, reducing anti-inflammatory HDL capacity relevant to persistent inflammation.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: LCAT
rs4303171 is one of 3 known variants in the LCAT gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View LCAT gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4303171
Research into LCAT variants including rs4303171 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 LCAT and the rs4303171 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 LCAT gene
The following variants in LCAT are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4303171 variant in the LCAT gene?
rs4303171 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the LCAT (Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase) gene, which is involved in HDL maturation. LCAT esterifies free cholesterol on nascent HDL particles, enabling HDL maturation to large, spherical HDL2/3. LCAT deficiency (Fish eye disease, familial LCAT deficiency) causes extremely low HDL with corneal opacities.
How may the rs4303171 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
LCAT is required for HDL particle maturation and reverse cholesterol transport efficacy. Impaired LCAT activity through variants may contribute to the dysfunctional, low HDL observed in Long COVID, reducing anti-inflammatory HDL capacity relevant to persistent inflammation.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4303171 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 rs4303171 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 LCAT and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 26476073
- [2]Journal of Lipid Research
- [3]Circulation