2018, Volume 14
The contribution of selected variants in ACE, MSTN and ADRB2 genes in the achievements of judo practitioners
Konrad Kwaśniak1, Aleksander Myszka1, Justyna Czarnik1, Jacek Tabarkiewicz1
1Medyczny, Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Rzeszów, Poland
Author for correspondence: Konrad Kwaśniak; Medyczny, Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Rzeszów, Poland; email: konkwasniak@gmail.com
Full text
Abstract
Background and Study Aim: I/D polymorphism of the ACE gene is one of the best known genetic variants which affects physical performance in humans. These polymorphisms act on the RAS, affecting the body's water and sodium balances. Another variant of genes which can play an important role in predisposition to sport engagement are Arg16Gly and Gln27Glu of the ADRB2 gene and K153R of the MSTN gene. ADRB2 is expressed on bronchial smooth muscle and is associated with lipid metabolism; in turn MSTN modulates myoblast proliferation and hence muscle mass and strength. The aim of this study was the question of whether selected gene variants (I/D, Arg16Gly, Gln27Glu, and K153R polymorphisms in the ACE, ADRB2, and MSTN genes, respectively) have a relationship with achievements obtained by competitive judo athletes and their predisposition to injuries.
Material and Methods: In our study, 82 judo athletes from Poland and 26 from Croatia took part. We studied the contribution of selected polymorphisms of ACE, ADRB2 and MSTN genes in judo practitioners. The study was conducted on DNA isolated from buccal cells. The genotypes of the ACE, ADRB2 and MSTN genes were determined by ASA-PCR and RFLP-PCR.
Results: Genotypes ID and Arg16Gly from SNPs I/D and Arg16Gly were associated with better performances in competitions (most placed 2nd in competition, p = 0.06). Furthermore, the I allele may predispose an individual to joint injuries (OR = 1.69, p = 0.03) while the Gln allele may protect an individual from spinal injuries (OR = 0.58, p = 0.054), respectively.
Conclusions: ACE and ADRB2 genes may also influence leg muscle strength and bodyweight in judo participants.
Key words: genotype, endurance, combat sports, SNPs, strength