rs4687270
Variant in the PLA2G4A gene (Phospholipase A2 Group IVA)
rs4687270 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the PLA2G4A gene, involved in arachidonic acid release. 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 rs4687270 variant?
rs4687270 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the PLA2G4A (Phospholipase A2 Group IVA) gene. It belongs to the Inflammation category and is part of the Immune System & Inflammation biological cluster. PLA2G4A (cPLA2α) is the calcium-dependent cytosolic phospholipase A2 that liberates arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids, initiating prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. It is a key regulator of the inflammatory lipid mediator cascade.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the PLA2G4A gene, which is involved in the arachidonic acid release pathway. Genes within the Immune System & Inflammation 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.
rs4687270 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Lipid mediator dysregulation is documented in COVID-19 and Long COVID. PLA2G4A activity controls the arachidonic acid supply for both pro-inflammatory (prostaglandins, leukotrienes) and potentially pro-resolving mediator synthesis, making variants affecting its activity relevant to inflammation persistence.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: PLA2G4A
rs4687270 is one of 3 known variants in the PLA2G4A gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View PLA2G4A gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4687270
Research into PLA2G4A variants including rs4687270 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 PLA2G4A and the rs4687270 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 PLA2G4A gene
The following variants in PLA2G4A are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4687270 variant in the PLA2G4A gene?
rs4687270 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the PLA2G4A (Phospholipase A2 Group IVA) gene, which is involved in arachidonic acid release. PLA2G4A (cPLA2α) is the calcium-dependent cytosolic phospholipase A2 that liberates arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids, initiating prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. It is a key regulator of the inflammatory lipid mediator cascade.
How may the rs4687270 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Lipid mediator dysregulation is documented in COVID-19 and Long COVID. PLA2G4A activity controls the arachidonic acid supply for both pro-inflammatory (prostaglandins, leukotrienes) and potentially pro-resolving mediator synthesis, making variants affecting its activity relevant to inflammation persistence.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4687270 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 rs4687270 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 PLA2G4A and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 26969263
- [2]Nature Chemical Biology
- [3]Journal of Biological Chemistry