Gene doping

Area of Science:

• Sports science
• Biotechnology
• Medical ethics

Background:

• Gene doping involves the illicit use of gene therapy to boost athletic capabilities.
• The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has recognized gene doping as a threat and prohibited it.
• Gene therapy technology is advancing despite safety and efficacy concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of gene doping in sports.
• To discuss the identified genes and proteins influencing athletic performance.
• To highlight the risks and detection challenges associated with gene doping.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on gene therapy and athletic performance.
• Analysis of studies on naturally occurring gene mutations affecting physical traits.
• Examination of gene-transfer experiments in animal models.

Main Results:

• Numerous genes and proteins crucial for athletic performance have been identified.
• Evidence from human mutations and animal studies confirms that gene expression impacts physical performance.
• Gene therapy offers potential performance enhancements but carries significant health risks.

Conclusions:

• Gene doping presents a dual challenge: potential performance gains versus health risks for athletes.
• The steady progression of gene therapy necessitates ongoing vigilance and research into detection methods.
• Anti-doping authorities face evolving challenges in identifying and preventing gene doping practices.