rs4986791
Variant in the TLR4 gene (Toll-Like Receptor 4)
rs4986791 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the TLR4 gene, involved in pattern recognition. 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 rs4986791 variant?
rs4986791 is a SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the TLR4 (Toll-Like Receptor 4) gene. It belongs to the Innate Immunity category and is part of the Innate Immunity & Interferons biological cluster. TLR4 is the innate immune sensor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from gram-negative bacteria, signaling via MyD88 and TRIF adaptors to activate NF-κB and interferon regulatory factors. It also responds to endogenous danger signals including HMGB1.
Biological role and pathway
This variant sits within the TLR4 gene, which is involved in the pattern recognition pathway. Genes within the Innate Immunity & Interferons 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.
rs4986791 and Long COVID / ME-CFS research
Translocation of gut bacterial LPS into systemic circulation activates TLR4, driving sterile inflammation in Long COVID. TLR4 polymorphisms (Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile) reduce LPS responsiveness and are associated with altered COVID-19 susceptibility.
This information is based on published research and does not constitute medical advice. See references below.
Parent gene: TLR4
rs4986791 is one of 3 known variants in the TLR4 gene. To understand the full biological context of this variant, explore the parent gene page.
View TLR4 gene page →Conditions studied in relation to rs4986791
Research into TLR4 variants including rs4986791 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 TLR4 and the rs4986791 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 TLR4 gene
The following variants in TLR4 are also studied in relation to chronic illness and may be analysed together for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rs4986791 variant in the TLR4 gene?
rs4986791 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the TLR4 (Toll-Like Receptor 4) gene, which is involved in pattern recognition. TLR4 is the innate immune sensor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from gram-negative bacteria, signaling via MyD88 and TRIF adaptors to activate NF-κB and interferon regulatory factors. It also responds to endogenous danger signals including HMGB1.
How may the rs4986791 variant relate to Long COVID or ME/CFS?
Translocation of gut bacterial LPS into systemic circulation activates TLR4, driving sterile inflammation in Long COVID. TLR4 polymorphisms (Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile) reduce LPS responsiveness and are associated with altered COVID-19 susceptibility.
Can a consumer DNA test detect the rs4986791 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 rs4986791 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 TLR4 and its variants. This is not an exhaustive literature review.
- [1]PMID: 31530929
- [2]Nature Reviews Immunology
- [3]PNAS