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Genetic Testing in Sports
Context:
The growing use of genetic testing in sports has attracted considerable interest, especially as athletes gear up for the 2024 Paris Olympics, it has sparked debates about the potential advantages and ethical concerns surrounding genetic screening in athletics.
More on the news:
- Indian table tennis player Sharath Kamal used genetic screening to enhance his performance ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, discovering food allergies and nutritional needs.
- Cricket: In 2017, the Board of Control for Cricket in India used genetic testing to improve various aspects of the performance of the Indian men’s cricket team.
Understanding Genetic Testing:
- Genetic tests analyse DNA to understand how genetic variations influence athletic performance, such as endurance, flexibility, and psychological traits.
- It identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins to either confirm or rule out genetic conditions and evaluate the risk of developing or passing on genetic disorders.
- Genetic testing has the potential to enhance athletic performance by personalising training and nutrition.
Genetic Markers:
- ACE Gene: Linked to endurance (ACE-I variant) and strength (ACE-D variant).
- ACTN3 Gene: Associated with muscle performance; the R577 variant is common in sprinters, while the 577X variant is more prevalent in endurance athletes.
Types of Genetic Tests:
- Cytogenetic Testing: Examines whole chromosomes for abnormalities in structure or number.
- Biochemical Testing: Measures the levels and activity of proteins produced by genes to identify deficiencies.
- Molecular Testing: Detects small mutations within specific genes using techniques like DNA sequencing.
Applications and Findings:
- Research Findings: Studies have shown that genetic factors can account for up to 66% of differences in athletic performance, with the rest influenced by environmental factors.
- Diet Optimisation: Genetic tests can guide dietary adjustments, such as identifying lactose intolerance or optimising nutrient intake for performance.
- Injury Risk and Recovery: Genetic variants can influence injury risk and recovery times. For instance, certain gene variants can increase susceptibility to tendon damage.
- Biometrics and AI: Modern sports science incorporates biometrics, data analytics, and AI to monitor athletes’ performance and scout talent. For example, India’s Khelo India program uses AI to assess and predict athletic potential.
Limitations & Ethical Concerns:
- Privacy and Discrimination: Genetic testing risks misuse and unfair advantages in sports.
- Accuracy and Reliability: Some studies have shown conflicting results regarding the impact of specific genes on athletic performance, indicating a need for more comprehensive research.
- Overemphasis on Genetics: Genetics should not overshadow the role of training, practice, and other factors.
- Fairness and Integrity: Genetic testing for selection could undermine fair competition and lead to unethical practices.
- Commercial Use: Genetic tests are now available commercially, though some scientists caution against their use for talent identification and performance prediction due to potential misrepresentation and privacy concerns.
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Genetics and Sports Performance:
Performance-Enhancing Gene Polymorphisms (PEPs):
ACE I/D Polymorphism:
ACTN3 R577X Polymorphism:
Polymorphism:
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