rs1544161
Variant in the ROCK2 gene (Rho Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase 2)
rs1544161 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ROCK2 gene, involved in RhoA/ROCK / cytoskeletal and vascular regulation. 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 rs1544161 variant?
rs1544161 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the ROCK2 (Rho Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase 2) gene. It belongs to the Signaling category and is part of the Coagulation & Microcirculation biological cluster. ROCK2 encodes Rho-associated kinase 2 (ROCK2), which phosphorylates myosin light chains to regulate actomyosin contractility.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the ROCK2 gene, which is involved in the RhoA/ROCK / cytoskeletal and vascular regulation pathway. Genes within the Coagulation & Microcirculation 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.
rs1544161 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
ROCK2-mediated actomyosin contraction affects endothelial permeability and smooth muscle tone; ROCK inhibitors reduce COVID-19 cytokine storm in preclinical models, with ROCK2 variants potentially influencing Long COVID vascular disease.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: ROCK2
rs1544161 is one of 1 known variant in the ROCK2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View ROCK2 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs1544161
Research into ROCK2 variants including rs1544161 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 ROCK2 and the rs1544161 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 rs1544161 variant in the ROCK2 gene?
rs1544161 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the ROCK2 (Rho Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase 2) gene, which is involved in RhoA/ROCK / cytoskeletal and vascular regulation. ROCK2 encodes Rho-associated kinase 2 (ROCK2), which phosphorylates myosin light chains to regulate actomyosin contractility.
How may the rs1544161 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
ROCK2-mediated actomyosin contraction affects endothelial permeability and smooth muscle tone; ROCK inhibitors reduce COVID-19 cytokine storm in preclinical models, with ROCK2 variants potentially influencing Long COVID vascular disease.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs1544161 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 rs1544161 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 ROCK2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32966261
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Circulation