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CCL2 encodes MCP-1, a chemokine that attracts monocytes toward sites of immune activity. Recruitment is a different task from the cytokines that activate those cells once they arrive.

CCL3 encodes MIP-1 alpha, a chemokine involved in attracting and activating immune cells. It is related to CCL4, or MIP-1 beta, but the two genes and proteins are distinct.

CCL4 encodes MIP-1 beta, a chemokine involved in attracting immune cells. It participates in a recruitment network that includes CCL2, CXCL8 and related chemokines.

CCL5, also called RANTES, is a chemokine that helps direct immune-cell movement. Chemokines tell cells where to go, which is different from measuring the total strength of an immune response.

CD40 encodes a receptor that participates in communication between immune cells, including T-cell help for B-cell responses. Its partner is CD40 ligand, encoded by CD40LG.

CD40LG encodes CD40 ligand, which binds CD40 and supports communication needed for effective antibody responses. It is on the X chromosome, which changes how some genetic results must be interpreted.

CETP transfers cholesteryl esters between lipoprotein particles. This helps explain why the balance of HDL and other lipid particles is more complex than a single cholesterol number.

CXCL13 is a chemokine that attracts cells expressing CXCR5, including B cells. This pairing helps organize immune-cell traffic in lymphoid tissues and some chronic inflammatory settings.

CXCL8 is the gene for IL-8, a chemokine involved in recruiting and activating neutrophils. IL-8 is the protein nickname; CXCL8 is the gene name a DNA report may use.

CXCR5 encodes the receptor for CXCL13. This receptor helps guide B cells and certain T cells toward locations where organized immune responses develop.

DDAH1 encodes an enzyme that breaks down asymmetric dimethylarginine, or ADMA. ADMA inhibits nitric oxide synthase; DDAH1 is part of its clearance system, not the inhibitor itself.

F5 encodes coagulation factor V. The well-characterized Factor V Leiden variant, rs6025, can make factor V less responsive to an anticoagulant control mechanism, increasing susceptibility to venous clots. It does not mean the body cannot make factor V.