RCCX Theory: The Complex Gene Set Linking Trauma, Immunity, and Identity
A Gene Cluster Explaining the Interconnectedness of Autoimmune, Psychological, Neurological, and Connective Tissue Disorders
What is RCCX Theory?
RCCX Theory is a genetic theory that posits that approximately 20% of the population has a highly sensitive immune system, which creates a predisposition to developing a number of interconnected, overlapping health and psychiatric conditions - including Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), amongst myriad other conditions.
RCCX Theory was developed by Dr. Sharon Meglathary, an internal medicine physician and psychiatrist, to explain how mutations in the four RCCX genes cause a predisposition to complex chronic illness and mental health disorders by disrupting connective tissue integrity, immune function, and stress response.
The RCCX module of the human genome is highly mutagenic - meaning it can carry multiple mutations that are inherited together, from both parents and many ancestors. The co-inheritance of multiple genetic mutations can explain why many families experience clusters of chronic and psychiatric illness.
In short, this part of the human genome is the likely genetic basis for inherited chronic illness and intergenerational trauma.
What Conditions are Involved in RCCX Theory?
An extensive list of chronic health issues, and all identified psychiatric disorders, are connected to the RCCX gene cluster, including:
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and other Histamine Conditions
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and other forms of Dysautonomia
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and other Connective Tissue Disorders
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and other Fatiguing Conditions
The Entire Spectrum of Psychological Disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADD/ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorders, Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Phobias, Emotional Dysregulation, Compulsive Behaviors, Adrenaline/Thrill-Seeking Behaviors, Gender Dysphoria
Autoimmune Conditions and Immune Dysregulation including Hashimotos/Thyroid Disorders, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Fungal and Bacterial Infections, Chronic Strep/Inability to Clear Strep, Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)/Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS), Epstein Barr, Celiac Disease, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), IgA Deficiency, experiencing no colds/viruses for years
Mitochondrial Disorders
Biological Illness Including Chronic Lyme Disease, Toxic Mold, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, and Gulf War Syndrome
Gastrointestinal Disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Gastroparesis, Gut Dysbiosis, Leaky Gut Syndrome, Malabsorption, Candida Overgrowth, and Food Intolerances
Neurological Disorders and Pain Syndromes including Small Fiber Neuropathy, Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Fibromyalgia, Chronic Migraines/Headaches, Raised Intracranial Pressure (ICP), Chiari Malformation, Vulvodynia, Interstitial Cystitis, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), Sleep Apnea, Sleep Paralysis, Narcolepsy, Restless Leg Syndrome, Seizure Disorders, Dystonia, Frequent Dislocations, Parkinson’s Disorder, Pyroluria, Disorders of Copper and Zinc Regulation, Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Hormonal Disorders including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Endometriosis, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Dysmenorrhea, Fertility Issues, Adrenal Fatigue, Cortisol Issues, Addison’s Disease, Lipedema
Continue reading to learn about the genes involved in RCCX theory, the associated psychological profile/personality type, testing and treatment options, and strategies to manage your health and wellness with suspected RCCX genetics.