Genetics of Athletic Performance

Abstract

Performance enhancing polymorphisms (PEPs) are examples of natural genetic variation that affect the outcome of athletic challenges. Elite athletes, and what separates them from the average competitor, have been the subjects of discussion and debate for decades. While training, diet, and mental fitness are all clearly important contributors to achieving athletic success, the fact that individuals reaching the pinnacle of their chosen sports often share both physical and physiological attributes suggests a role for genetics. That multiple members of a family often participate in highly competitive events, such as the Olympics, further supports this argument. In this review, we discuss what is known regarding the genes and gene families, including the mitochondrial genome, that are believed to play a role in human athletic performance. Where possible, we describe the physiological impact of the critical gene variants and consider predictions about other potentially important genes. Finally, we discuss the implications of these findings on the future for competitive athletics.

Natural Selection for Genetic Variants in Sport: The Role of Y Chromosome Genes in Elite Female Athletes with 46,XY DSD

“…Genes on many other chromosomes are known to influence height; for example, those involved in Marfan syndrome [33]. Variation in many genes located throughout the genome (for example, the gene for angiotensin-converting enzyme) are now documented as contributing to sport performance, particularly in endurance events [34]. Nonetheless, these genetic factors are not singled out as important determinants in eligibility to compete.…”

The 2013 Genetics Society of America Medal

“…Genomic analyses have identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms strongly associated with such behavioral differences, as in the myosin heavy chain 9 gene, that might promote greater heat tolerance in sprint dogs (Huson et al 2012). The ramifications of such work for understanding the attributes of elite athletes that contribute to their superior skills have been well appreciated by Elaine and her colleagues (Ostrander et al 2009). …”

Influencia del Polimorfismo Inserción / Deleción (rs4646994) del Gen de la Enzima Convertidora de Angiotensina en la Presión Inspiratoria y Espiratoria Máxima de Jóvenes Chilenos Sedentarios

“…Se entiende entonces, que cada grupo muscular tiene funciones distintas y una estructura que soporta tal acción (Polla et al, 2004). Así existen características que se relacionan con el tipo, tamaño y capilarización de la fibra muscular (Luce et al, 1982), cualidades que pueden cambiar de un sujeto a otro, dependiendo de factores medio ambientales y genéticos y que finalmente expresaran menor o mayor capacidad de fuerza (Ostrander et al, 2009). …”