rs182549
Variant in the LCT gene (Lactase)
rs182549 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the LCT gene, involved in intestinal carbohydrate metabolism. 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 rs182549 variant?
rs182549 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the LCT (Lactase) gene. It belongs to the Gut Microbiome category and is part of the Gut & Microbiome Interaction biological cluster. LCT encodes lactase, the intestinal enzyme that cleaves lactose; the LCT-13910C>T polymorphism determines lactase persistence in adulthood.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the LCT gene, which is involved in the intestinal carbohydrate metabolism pathway. Genes within the Gut & Microbiome Interaction 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.
rs182549 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
LCT variants affecting lactose digestion may contribute to gut dysbiosis and GI symptoms commonly reported in Long COVID patients.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: LCT
rs182549 is one of 2 known variants in the LCT gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View LCT gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs182549
Research into LCT variants including rs182549 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 LCT and the rs182549 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 LCT gene
The following variants in LCT are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs182549 variant in the LCT gene?
rs182549 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the LCT (Lactase) gene, which is involved in intestinal carbohydrate metabolism. LCT encodes lactase, the intestinal enzyme that cleaves lactose; the LCT-13910C>T polymorphism determines lactase persistence in adulthood.
How may the rs182549 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
LCT variants affecting lactose digestion may contribute to gut dysbiosis and GI symptoms commonly reported in Long COVID patients.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs182549 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 rs182549 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 LCT and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 29925876
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation