Genes and Elite Marathon Running Performance: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Genomics
• Sports Science
• Human Genetics

Background:

• Genetics significantly impacts exercise traits and athletic performance.
• Elite marathon running performance has a known heritable basis linked to endurance traits.
• Genomic studies aim to identify specific genes influencing marathon success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing evidence on genes and polymorphisms associated with marathon running performance.
• To identify specific genetic markers linked to elite marathon athlete status and performance.
• To evaluate the current state of genomic research in marathon running.

Main Methods:

• Systematic database search adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Inclusion of case-control, cohort, and genome-wide association studies.
• Analysis of genotype data from participants, including elite marathon runners.

Main Results:

• 14 studies were included, analyzing 160 polymorphisms in 27 genes across 10,442 participants.
• 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 14 genes were potentially associated with marathon performance.
• Limited replication of genotype-phenotype associations and potential publication bias were noted.

Conclusions:

• While several genes and polymorphisms are linked to marathon running, predicting performance solely on genetics is premature.
• Further research with larger cohorts and genome-wide technologies is needed to confirm associations.
• The impact of epigenetics on endurance traits warrants consideration in future studies.