rs1799971
Variant in the OPRM1 gene (Opioid Receptor Mu 1)
rs1799971 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the OPRM1 gene, involved in endogenous opioid pain 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 rs1799971 variant?
rs1799971 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the OPRM1 (Opioid Receptor Mu 1) gene. It belongs to the Pain Sensory category and is part of the Pain & Sensory Processing biological cluster. OPRM1 encodes the mu-opioid receptor, the primary target for endogenous and exogenous opioids in pain relief.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the OPRM1 gene, which is involved in the endogenous opioid pain modulation pathway. Genes within the Pain & Sensory Processing 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.
rs1799971 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
OPRM1 variants affecting opioid pain modulation may influence chronic pain perception and analgesic responses in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: OPRM1
rs1799971 is one of 2 known variants in the OPRM1 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View OPRM1 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs1799971
Research into OPRM1 variants including rs1799971 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 OPRM1 and the rs1799971 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 OPRM1 gene
The following variants in OPRM1 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs1799971 variant in the OPRM1 gene?
rs1799971 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the OPRM1 (Opioid Receptor Mu 1) gene, which is involved in endogenous opioid pain modulation. OPRM1 encodes the mu-opioid receptor, the primary target for endogenous and exogenous opioids in pain relief.
How may the rs1799971 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
OPRM1 variants affecting opioid pain modulation may influence chronic pain perception and analgesic responses in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs1799971 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 rs1799971 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 OPRM1 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32272069
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation