Genetic Profiling and Performance Optimization in Elite Combat Sport Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Total...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Human Genetics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Genetic factors significantly influence athletic performance, with specific gene variants potentially conferring advantages.
• Performance-enhancing polymorphisms (PEPs) are key genetic markers studied for their role in elite athletic success.
• Understanding genetic predispositions in athletes can inform training and talent identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the genetic predispositions of elite point-fighting (PF) athletes.
• To analyze gene variants in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), and creatine kinase muscle-type (CKM).
• To explore the potential influence of these genetic markers on athletic traits critical for PF success.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of 24 elite PF athletes (12 male, 12 female) using saliva DNA samples.
• Analysis of specific genetic markers: ACE (D allele, ID genotype), PPARα (G allele, GG genotype), and CKM (A allele, AA genotype).
• Calculation of a Total Genetic Score (TGS) to assess overall genetic predisposition.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of the ACE D allele (58.33%) and ID genotype (66.67%) was observed.
• The PPARα G allele (77.08%) and GG genotype (54.17%) were common among athletes.
• CKM A allele (77.08%) and AA genotype (62.50%) showed high frequency, with a mixed TGS indicating varied genetic profiles.

Conclusions:

• Elite PF athletes display mixed genetic profiles for aerobic and anaerobic pathways.
• A potential mismatch exists between athletes' genetic predispositions and their strength-oriented training.
• Findings suggest genetic information could guide future training strategies for PF athletes.