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Genes and Athletic Performance: An Update.
Medicine and Sport Science
|June 12, 2016
Summary
Genetic factors significantly influence athletic success. Researchers have identified 155 genetic markers linked to elite athlete status, with genome-wide association studies (GWASs) proving highly effective in discovering new markers.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Genetics
- Human Performance
Background:
- Athletic success is influenced by genetic variability.
- Understanding the genetic basis of elite performance is crucial for sports science.
- Previous research has identified numerous genetic markers associated with athletic status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of genetic determinism in athlete status.
- To identify novel DNA polymorphisms related to elite athletic potential.
- To highlight the role of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) in sports genetics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic markers associated with athlete status.
- Analysis of findings from genome-wide association studies (GWASs).
- Assessment of marker replication and potential false-positive results.
Main Results:
- Over 155 genetic markers linked to elite athlete status identified in 19 years (93 endurance, 62 power/strength).
- 41 markers discovered in the last 2 years via GWASs in diverse athlete populations.
- 31 markers replicated in multiple studies, while 29 lacked replication, suggesting potential false positives.
Conclusions:
- Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) are a powerful tool for identifying sports-related genetic markers.
- Further research with large cohorts and advanced sequencing is needed to discover causal genetic variants.
- Genetics plays a significant, partly heritable role in determining elite athlete status and related phenotypes.
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