rs885479
Variant in the MC1R gene (Melanocortin 1 Receptor)
rs885479 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MC1R gene, involved in melanocortin signaling / pain and immune modulation. 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 rs885479 variant?
rs885479 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the MC1R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor) gene. It belongs to the Neuroendocrine category and is part of the Autonomic Nervous System biological cluster. MC1R encodes the melanocortin-1 receptor, primarily known for its role in skin pigmentation, but also expressed on immune cells where it modulates inflammation.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the MC1R gene, which is involved in the melanocortin signaling / pain and immune modulation pathway. Genes within the Autonomic Nervous System 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.
rs885479 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
MC1R variants affect ACTH and alpha-MSH responsiveness; beyond pigmentation, MC1R variants influence pain sensitivity, immune modulation, and HPA axis function potentially relevant to Long COVID symptoms.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: MC1R
rs885479 is one of 3 known variants in the MC1R gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View MC1R gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs885479
Research into MC1R variants including rs885479 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 MC1R and the rs885479 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 MC1R gene
The following variants in MC1R are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs885479 variant in the MC1R gene?
rs885479 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the MC1R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor) gene, which is involved in melanocortin signaling / pain and immune modulation. MC1R encodes the melanocortin-1 receptor, primarily known for its role in skin pigmentation, but also expressed on immune cells where it modulates inflammation.
How may the rs885479 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
MC1R variants affect ACTH and alpha-MSH responsiveness; beyond pigmentation, MC1R variants influence pain sensitivity, immune modulation, and HPA axis function potentially relevant to Long COVID symptoms.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs885479 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 rs885479 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 MC1R and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33664986
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Investigative Dermatology