Sunday, August 30, 2009

Got some performance enhancing polymorphisms?

First of all, gotta love the term "Performance Enhanding Polymorphisms" (PEPs). This is a review paper describing what we know about the genetics of athletic performance. They focus on ACE, ACTN3, MSTN, NOS3 and several other genes. In light of recent performances, and just out of curiosity, let's get some genotypes on these three people:
Usain Bolt
Lance Armstrong
Michael Phelps

Genetics of Athletic Performance
Elaine A. Ostrander, Heather J. Huson, and Gary K. Ostrander
Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics Vol. 10: 407-429
Abstract: Performance enhancing polymorphisms (PEPs) are examples of natural genetic variation that affect the outcome of athletic challenges. Elite athletes, and what separates them from the average competitor, have been the subjects of discussion and debate for decades. While training, diet, and mental fitness are all clearly important contributors to achieving athletic success, the fact that individuals reaching the pinnacle of their chosen sports often share both physical and physiological attributes suggests a role for genetics. That multiple members of a family often participate in highly competitive events, such as the Olympics, further supports this argument. In this review, we discuss what is known regarding the genes and gene families, including the mitochondrial genome, that are believed to play a role in human athletic performance. Where possible, we describe the physiological impact of the critical gene variants and consider predictions about other potentially important genes. Finally, we discuss the implications of these findings on the future for competitive athletics.

1 comment:

sports handicapping services said...

I enjoyed reading your articles. This is truly a great read for me. I have bookmarked it and I am looking forward to reading new articles an i keep a nice post

 
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