rs4880

Variant in the SOD2 gene (Superoxide Dismutase 2)

rs4880 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SOD2 gene, involved in antioxidant defense. 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 rs4880 variant?

rs4880 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the SOD2 (Superoxide Dismutase 2) gene. It belongs to the Oxidative Stress category and is part of the Oxidative Stress biological cluster. SOD2 encodes mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase, the primary defense enzyme against mitochondrial superoxide radicals.

Biological role and pathway

This variant sits within the SOD2 gene, which is involved in the antioxidant defense pathway. Genes within the Oxidative Stress 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.

rs4880 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research

SOD2 variants affecting antioxidant capacity may increase mitochondrial oxidative stress and contribute to tissue damage in Long COVID.

This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.

Parent gene: SOD2

rs4880 is one of 1 known variant in the SOD2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.

View SOD2 gene page →

Conditions studied in relation to rs4880

Research into SOD2 variants including rs4880 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 SOD2 and the rs4880 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 rs4880 variant in the SOD2 gene?

rs4880 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the SOD2 (Superoxide Dismutase 2) gene, which is involved in antioxidant defense. SOD2 encodes mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase, the primary defense enzyme against mitochondrial superoxide radicals.

How may the rs4880 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?

SOD2 variants affecting antioxidant capacity may increase mitochondrial oxidative stress and contribute to tissue damage in Long COVID.

Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4880 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 rs4880 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 Report

Informational and educational only · Not a diagnostic tool · GDPR compliant

References

The following publications were used in compiling the research context for SOD2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.

  • [1]PMID: 25122754
  • [2]Nature Genetics
  • [3]Journal of Clinical Investigation