rs2229616
Variant in the MC4R gene (Melanocortin 4 Receptor)
rs2229616 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MC4R gene, involved in energy homeostasis / HPA axis. 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 rs2229616 variant?
rs2229616 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the MC4R (Melanocortin 4 Receptor) gene. It belongs to the Neuroendocrine category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. MC4R encodes the melanocortin-4 receptor in the hypothalamus, a key regulator of energy balance and food intake.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the MC4R gene, which is involved in the energy homeostasis / HPA axis pathway. Genes within the Metabolic Regulation 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.
rs2229616 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
MC4R signaling affects energy balance and appetite; variants may modulate weight changes, fatigue, and metabolic dysregulation observed in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: MC4R
rs2229616 is one of 2 known variants in the MC4R gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View MC4R gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2229616
Research into MC4R variants including rs2229616 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 MC4R and the rs2229616 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 MC4R gene
The following variants in MC4R are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs2229616 variant in the MC4R gene?
rs2229616 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the MC4R (Melanocortin 4 Receptor) gene, which is involved in energy homeostasis / HPA axis. MC4R encodes the melanocortin-4 receptor in the hypothalamus, a key regulator of energy balance and food intake.
How may the rs2229616 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
MC4R signaling affects energy balance and appetite; variants may modulate weight changes, fatigue, and metabolic dysregulation observed in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2229616 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 rs2229616 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.
Get Your Personalised DNA ReportInformational and educational only · Not a diagnostic tool · GDPR compliant
References
The following publications were used in compiling the research context for MC4R and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33153018
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]NEJM