← Glossary
Gene

IRF4

IRF4 encodes interferon regulatory factor 4, a transcription factor essential for lymphocyte differentiation (B cells, T cells, dendritic cells) that also regulates melanocyte gene expression, including modulating TYR (tyrosinase) transcription in pigment cells. The rs12203592 variant in an IRF4 enhancer is strongly associated with freckling, hair and eye color, and skin's tanning/sun-response behavior by altering melanocyte pigmentation output.

Traits IRF4 shapes

Markers (rsIDs)

Reference databases

How Biome reads this

Biome's whole-genome test reads this from one saliva sample, alongside all 3.2 billion letters of your DNA.

Biome DNA test

This page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Genetic results describe tendencies and predispositions, not diagnoses. Always consult a licensed clinician before making decisions about your health, medications, or supplements.