rs11076161
Variant in the MT1A gene (Metallothionein 1A)
rs11076161 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MT1A gene, involved in metal detoxification / zinc and copper homeostasis. 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 rs11076161 variant?
rs11076161 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the MT1A (Metallothionein 1A) gene. It belongs to the Oxidative Stress category and is part of the Detox & Medication Sensitivity biological cluster. MT1A encodes metallothionein 1A, a small cysteine-rich protein that sequesters zinc, copper, and cadmium, providing metal detoxification and antioxidant protection.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the MT1A gene, which is involved in the metal detoxification / zinc and copper homeostasis pathway. Genes within the Detox & Medication Sensitivity 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.
rs11076161 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Metallothionein protects against heavy metal toxicity and oxidative stress; MT1A induction during inflammation helps regulate zinc and copper levels important for immune function in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: MT1A
rs11076161 is one of 1 known variant in the MT1A gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View MT1A gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs11076161
Research into MT1A variants including rs11076161 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 MT1A and the rs11076161 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs11076161 variant in the MT1A gene?
rs11076161 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the MT1A (Metallothionein 1A) gene, which is involved in metal detoxification / zinc and copper homeostasis. MT1A encodes metallothionein 1A, a small cysteine-rich protein that sequesters zinc, copper, and cadmium, providing metal detoxification and antioxidant protection.
How may the rs11076161 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Metallothionein protects against heavy metal toxicity and oxidative stress; MT1A induction during inflammation helps regulate zinc and copper levels important for immune function in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs11076161 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 rs11076161 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 MT1A and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 34088393
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Free Radical Biology and Medicine