Angiotensin-converting-enzyme gene insertion/deletion polymorphism and response to physical training

Association of Genetic Factors With Selected Measures of Physical Performance

“…39 The first is that the ACE polymorphism may alter physical performance through a metabolic response associated with the I allele, resulting in greater metabolic efficiency. 39 The second theory is that there is a cardiorespiratory mechanism underlying the increased endurance capacity observed among subjects possessing the I allele. 40 Subjects involved in activities requiring a high level of endurance rely greatly on fatty acids as an energy source.…”

“…At the start of strenuous activity, these fatty acids are sent to the tissue more quickly among subjects who participate in endurance training than among those who are untrained. 41 Montgomery and colleagues 39 investigated the metabolic effects of the human local renin-angiotensin system within subjects involved in an intensive exercise program and showed that those with the II genotype had a greater anabolic response for fat mass than did those with either the ID or the DD genotype. These data are consistent with those of Katsuya and colleagues, 42 who found an association of the ACE I allele with increased body mass index.…”

“…These data are consistent with those of Katsuya and colleagues, 42 who found an association of the ACE I allele with increased body mass index. Montgomery and colleagues 39 stated that the association of the increased storage of fatty acids with improved physical performance may suggest that the ACE II genotype allows for the conservation of energy, thereby enhancing metabolic efficiency by maximizing the use of oxidative fuel for metabolism.…”

“…First, the ACE I/D polymorphism may be linked to a nearby gene allowing the endocrine system to alter metabolism systemically. 39 Montgomery and colleagues 39 suggested that the ACE polymorphism may be linked to the growth hormone gene; however, other research indicated that the I/D polymorphism is not linked to other genes. 43 Furthermore, differences in the renin-angiotensin system within the central nervous system may alter appetite and physical effort, 44 and the renin-angiotensin system within the intestines may modify the absorptive capability of the gut.…”

“…This process may be possible through a local adipose renin-angiotensin system. 39 The angiotensin gene is expressed readily within adipose tissue and also can be influenced by the body's nutritional state. 46 The up-regulation (associated with the presence of the D allele) or down-regulation (associated with the presence of the I allele) of ACE, therefore, will alter the local concentration of angiotensin and thus have an effect on metabolism.…”