rs2279238
Variant in the RXRA gene (Retinoid X Receptor Alpha)
rs2279238 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the RXRA gene, involved in retinoid and vitamin D receptor signaling. 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 rs2279238 variant?
rs2279238 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the RXRA (Retinoid X Receptor Alpha) gene. It belongs to the Vitamin Metabolism category and is part of the Vitamin & Nutrient Metabolism biological cluster. RXRA encodes RXR-alpha, a nuclear receptor that forms heterodimers with VDR and PPAR receptors, modulating gene expression.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the RXRA gene, which is involved in the retinoid and vitamin D receptor signaling pathway. Genes within the Vitamin & Nutrient Metabolism 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.
rs2279238 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
RXRA as an obligate partner of VDR is critical for vitamin D-mediated immune regulation; variants may modify vitamin D signaling in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: RXRA
rs2279238 is one of 2 known variants in the RXRA gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View RXRA gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs2279238
Research into RXRA variants including rs2279238 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 RXRA and the rs2279238 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 RXRA gene
The following variants in RXRA are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs2279238 variant in the RXRA gene?
rs2279238 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the RXRA (Retinoid X Receptor Alpha) gene, which is involved in retinoid and vitamin D receptor signaling. RXRA encodes RXR-alpha, a nuclear receptor that forms heterodimers with VDR and PPAR receptors, modulating gene expression.
How may the rs2279238 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
RXRA as an obligate partner of VDR is critical for vitamin D-mediated immune regulation; variants may modify vitamin D signaling in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs2279238 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 rs2279238 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 RXRA and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 33153018
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation