HSA | FSA CARDS ARE NOW ACCEPTED

Understanding TNFRSF1A and Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s natural defense system that helps heal injuries and fight infections. When it becomes chronic, however, it can harm health and speed up aspects of aging. The TNFRSF1A gene makes a protein called tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, or TNF-R1, which binds signaling molecules that trigger inflammation. Variations in TNFRSF1A can change how well that receptor functions and may influence risk for inflammatory conditions.

Why this matters

  • TNF-R1 helps regulate immune signaling that starts and stops inflammation.
  • Genetic differences can alter receptor function, potentially making inflammation easier to start or harder to resolve.
  • Genes are one piece of the puzzle. Environment, diet, activity, sleep, stress, and other genes all affect your overall inflammatory balance.

Genetic interpretation: rs1800693 (TNFRSF1A)

The single nucleotide variant rs1800693 in the TNFRSF1A gene has three possible genotypes. The interpretation below explains typical associations and practical actions you can take to support healthy inflammation regulation. Use the expand/collapse panels to view the explanation that matches your genotype.

CC — two effect alleles (higher risk)

If your genotype is CC, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with an increased likelihood of altered TNF-R1 function and a higher risk for inflammatory conditions compared with the non-effect variant.

Implications:

  • Your TNF-R1 receptor may respond differently to inflammatory signals, which could make it easier for low-level inflammation to become chronic.
  • This does not guarantee disease. Many people with this genotype remain healthy with the right lifestyle and monitoring.
  • Knowledge of this predisposition can help you prioritize prevention through diet, activity, sleep, stress reduction, and avoiding harmful exposures.
CT — one effect allele (likely increased risk)

If your genotype is CT, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with a likely increase in risk for altered inflammatory regulation compared with the most common genotype.

Implications:

  • You may be somewhat more susceptible to conditions where chronic inflammation is a central factor.
  • This is a modest predisposition and does not determine your health destiny. Lifestyle and other factors strongly influence outcomes.
  • Following an anti-inflammatory lifestyle can meaningfully reduce risk and support healthy aging.
TT — zero effect alleles (typical response)

If your genotype is TT, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This is the most common genotype and is associated with typical TNF-R1 function and typical inflammatory response regulation for this variant.

Implications:

  • Your TNF-R1 receptor is expected to behave in the standard way described for this gene.
  • This genotype does not raise genetic risk related to rs1800693, but inflammation can still be driven by many non-genetic factors.
  • Everyone benefits from anti-inflammatory habits to support long-term health.

Practical ways to support healthy inflammation

Regardless of genotype, lifestyle choices play a major role in controlling inflammation. Below are evidence-informed strategies you can adopt to reduce chronic inflammation and support healthy aging.

Diet

  • Emphasize whole, minimally processed foods: a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
  • Increase omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.
  • Choose whole grains over refined grains to support stable blood sugar and reduce inflammatory spikes.
  • Limit added sugars, sugary beverages, and highly processed foods that promote inflammatory pathways.
  • Include antioxidant-rich foods: berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and brightly colored produce.
  • Use healthy oils such as extra virgin olive oil and avoid trans fats.

Supplements to consider

  • Omega-3 supplements (fish oil or algal oil) can reduce markers of inflammation for many people. Dose and formulation should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
  • Vitamin D supports immune regulation; if levels are low on testing, supplementation may help. Check blood levels before starting high-dose vitamin D.
  • Curcumin and polyphenol supplements have anti-inflammatory properties for some people, but they vary in absorption and may interact with medications.

Activity and movement

  • Aim for regular physical activity: a mix of aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility work. Even moderate activity reduces inflammatory markers.
  • Reduce prolonged sedentary time. Break up long sitting periods with short walks or movement breaks.

Sleep and recovery

  • Prioritize regular, restorative sleep. Poor sleep increases inflammatory signaling.
  • Establish consistent sleep-wake times and a relaxing pre-bed routine.

Stress management

  • Chronic psychological stress elevates inflammation. Practice stress-reduction techniques that work for you: mindfulness, breathing, yoga, therapy, or hobbies.
  • Foster strong social connections; social support helps buffer stress responses.

Avoid or limit harmful exposures

  • Do not smoke. Smoking is powerfully pro-inflammatory.
  • Limit excessive alcohol intake. Moderate intake or abstention reduces inflammatory burden for many people.

Tests and monitoring

  • Talk to your healthcare provider about baseline and periodic blood tests if you are concerned about inflammation: common markers include high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
  • If you have symptoms suggesting autoimmune or inflammatory disease, clinical evaluation and targeted testing are important.
  • Genetic results are one data point; use them alongside routine health screening and your provider’s clinical judgment.

When to talk to your healthcare provider

  • If you experience persistent joint pain, prolonged fatigue, unexplained fevers, or other signs of chronic inflammation, contact your provider for evaluation.
  • If you plan to start supplements, make changes to medications, or pursue targeted anti-inflammatory therapies, consult your provider to ensure safety and appropriateness.

Important reminder and disclaimer

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions only and does not provide medical advice. Genetic results do not diagnose conditions and cannot predict outcomes with certainty. Always discuss your genetic information, symptoms, and health plans with a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or treatment decisions.