Genetic doping and health damages.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Genetics
• Bioethics

Background:

• Genetic doping involves the non-therapeutic use of gene transfer technology to enhance athletic performance.
• The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) defines genetic doping, highlighting its potential to alter competition outcomes.
• Emerging gene transfer technologies present novel and potentially lethal doping methods in sports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the concept of genetic doping and its implications for sports.
• To examine the potential health damages and risks associated with gene transfer in athletes.
• To assess the consequences of using new genes for performance enhancement.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications until July 2010.
• Searched databases including GOOGLE, ELSEVIER, and PUBMED.
• Utilized keywords such as 'genetic doping,' 'genes,' 'exercise,' 'performance,' and 'athletes.'

Main Results:

• Several genes are associated with enhanced athletic performance.
• The introduction of these genes carries significant health risks.
• Potential adverse effects include severe health damages.

Conclusions:

• Genetic doping presents serious health risks, including cancer, autoimmunization, and heart attack.
• The use of gene transfer for athletic enhancement is associated with severe and potentially lethal consequences.
• Ethical considerations and health monitoring are crucial regarding genetic doping in sports.