rs512555

Variant in the MS4A2 gene (Membrane Spanning 4-Domains A2 (FcεRI-beta))

rs512555 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MS4A2 gene, involved in high-affinity IgE receptor / mast cell activation. 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 rs512555 variant?

rs512555 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the MS4A2 (Membrane Spanning 4-Domains A2 (FcεRI-beta)) gene. It belongs to the Immune Signaling category and is part of the Histamine & MCAS biological cluster. MS4A2 encodes the beta subunit of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI), which is expressed on mast cells and basophils and amplifies IgE-mediated activation.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the MS4A2 gene, which is involved in the high-affinity IgE receptor / mast cell activation pathway. Genes within the Histamine & MCAS 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.

rs512555 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research

MS4A2 variants (Glu237Gly) alter FcεRI beta signaling in mast cells; variants affecting mast cell IgE sensitivity may contribute to MCAS and histamine intolerance in Long COVID.

This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.

Parent gene: MS4A2

rs512555 is one of 3 known variants in the MS4A2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

View MS4A2 gene page →

Conditions studied in relation to rs512555

Research into MS4A2 variants including rs512555 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 MS4A2 and the rs512555 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 MS4A2 gene

The following variants in MS4A2 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.

Frequently asked questions

What is the rs512555 variant in the MS4A2 gene?

rs512555 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the MS4A2 (Membrane Spanning 4-Domains A2 (FcεRI-beta)) gene, which is involved in high-affinity IgE receptor / mast cell activation. MS4A2 encodes the beta subunit of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI), which is expressed on mast cells and basophils and amplifies IgE-mediated activation.

How may the rs512555 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?

MS4A2 variants (Glu237Gly) alter FcεRI beta signaling in mast cells; variants affecting mast cell IgE sensitivity may contribute to MCAS and histamine intolerance in Long COVID.

Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs512555 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.

Related articles

Find out if you carry the rs512555 variant

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References

The following publications were used in compiling the research context for MS4A2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.

  • [1]PMID: 33398161
  • [2]Nature Genetics
  • [3]Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology