rs6259
Variant in the SHBG gene (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
rs6259 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SHBG gene, involved in sex hormone transport / bioavailability. 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 rs6259 variant?
rs6259 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) gene. It belongs to the Metabolic category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. SHBG encodes sex hormone-binding globulin, which transports testosterone and estradiol in blood, regulating their bioavailability.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the SHBG gene, which is involved in the sex hormone transport / bioavailability pathway. Genes within the Metabolic Regulation 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.
rs6259 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
SHBG levels affect free sex hormone concentrations; variants may influence estrogen and testosterone bioavailability with implications for sex hormone-immune interactions in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: SHBG
rs6259 is one of 2 known variants in the SHBG gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View SHBG gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs6259
Research into SHBG variants including rs6259 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 SHBG and the rs6259 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 SHBG gene
The following variants in SHBG are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs6259 variant in the SHBG gene?
rs6259 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) gene, which is involved in sex hormone transport / bioavailability. SHBG encodes sex hormone-binding globulin, which transports testosterone and estradiol in blood, regulating their bioavailability.
How may the rs6259 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
SHBG levels affect free sex hormone concentrations; variants may influence estrogen and testosterone bioavailability with implications for sex hormone-immune interactions in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs6259 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 rs6259 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 SHBG and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32296168
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]JCEM