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Muscle Oxygen Saturation Responses During Maximal and Submaximal Exercise According to SLC16A1 (MCT1) Gene
Shotaro Seki1, Tetsuro Kobayashi1,2, Naoki Kikuchi1
1Faculty of Sport Science, Nippon Sport Science University, Tokyo 158-8508, Japan.
Genes
|November 27, 2025
Summary
The AA genotype of the SLC16A1 gene is linked to better endurance performance in male collegiate long-distance runners, showing improved muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) and higher exercise intensity thresholds. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Genetics
- Sports Science
Background:
- Blood lactate and muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) are key endurance performance indicators.
- The influence of the SLC16A1 gene rs1049434 polymorphism on SmO2 and lactate thresholds in long-distance runners is unknown.
- This study investigates the association between SmO2, blood lactate, and the rs1049434 polymorphism in male collegiate long-distance runners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) referenced to blood lactate concentration and the rs1049434 polymorphism in male collegiate long-distance runners.
- To determine if the AA genotype or T-allele carriers of the rs1049434 polymorphism exhibit differences in physiological responses during maximal and submaximal exercise.
Main Methods:
- 15 Japanese male collegiate long-distance runners underwent graded incremental exercise testing.
- Physiological parameters, including respiratory gas data and vastus lateralis muscle SmO2, were measured.
- Participants were genotyped for the rs1049434 polymorphism, comparing AA genotype with T-allele carriers (AT + TT).
Main Results:
- Runners with the AA genotype showed significantly higher %V·O2max at lactate threshold and onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) compared to T-allele carriers.
- AA genotype carriers exhibited shorter muscle reoxygenation times (t1/2reoxygenation) and higher maximal SmO2 (SmO2max).
- SmO2 at OBLA was significantly higher in the AA genotype group.
Conclusions:
- The AA genotype of the SLC16A1 gene rs1049434 polymorphism may be associated with enhanced oxygen utilization efficiency and improved muscle oxygen delivery during high-intensity exercise in male collegiate long-distance runners.
- These findings suggest a potential genetic influence on endurance performance related to oxygen metabolism.
- Larger and more diverse study populations are required to validate these preliminary results.
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