rs523349
Variant in the SRD5A2 gene (Steroid 5 Alpha-Reductase 2)
rs523349 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SRD5A2 gene, involved in DHT biosynthesis. 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 rs523349 variant?
rs523349 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the SRD5A2 (Steroid 5 Alpha-Reductase 2) gene. It belongs to the Metabolic category and is part of the Metabolic Regulation biological cluster. SRD5A2 encodes 5α-reductase type 2, which converts testosterone to the potent androgen DHT in the prostate and other tissues.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the SRD5A2 gene, which is involved in the DHT biosynthesis 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.
rs523349 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
SRD5A2-mediated DHT production activates the androgen receptor driving TMPRSS2 expression; variants may affect androgen-mediated TMPRSS2 upregulation and SARS-CoV-2 entry susceptibility in Long COVID.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: SRD5A2
rs523349 is one of 2 known variants in the SRD5A2 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View SRD5A2 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs523349
Research into SRD5A2 variants including rs523349 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 SRD5A2 and the rs523349 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 SRD5A2 gene
The following variants in SRD5A2 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs523349 variant in the SRD5A2 gene?
rs523349 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the SRD5A2 (Steroid 5 Alpha-Reductase 2) gene, which is involved in DHT biosynthesis. SRD5A2 encodes 5α-reductase type 2, which converts testosterone to the potent androgen DHT in the prostate and other tissues.
How may the rs523349 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
SRD5A2-mediated DHT production activates the androgen receptor driving TMPRSS2 expression; variants may affect androgen-mediated TMPRSS2 upregulation and SARS-CoV-2 entry susceptibility in Long COVID.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs523349 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 rs523349 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 SRD5A2 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 32217835
- [2]Nature Genetics
- [3]JCEM