Open access peer-reviewed chapter

Genotypic Variation and Talent Identification in Sports

Written By

Anilendu Pramanik, Shubhraprakash Das and Sarit Dandapat

Submitted: 25 August 2021 Reviewed: 15 September 2021 Published: 30 October 2021

DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.100466

From the Edited Volume

Contemporary Advances in Sports Science

Edited by Redha Taiar

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Abstract

Top performance of athletes is not limited to the demand of fame, public recognition, sponsorship, and prize money but genetic inheritance contributes a prime role to hold such traits. Recent years, we have witnessed the rise of sports specific tests that identify person’s athletic talents, but human vary on genetic factors which silently work to achieve success in sports. Recent progress on the genetic determination in the sports sciences offer great perspective to analyze the genotype profile associated with the athletes. One of the most used advances in this field is the identification of variations in the DNA sequence, known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Genetic evaluations should be combined with other tools to get an accurate identification of athletes and their respective fields to achieve optimum success.

Keywords

  • SNP
  • genetic testing
  • ACTN3
  • DTC
  • talent identification

1. Introduction

The common inheritance of approximately 22 000 genes defines folks as human. Heredity plays a crucial role in human performance. Researchers estimate that performance connected traits necessary to elite athletes have heritability values of regarding 50% for maximal oxygen uptake (V02 max), 42–46% for cardiac output, 40–50% for muscle fiber type properties and 67% for explosive muscle power. Indeed, elite athlete standing is partly heritable with twin studies suggestion that 30–80% of the variance during this attribute is explained by heritable factors [1]. Performance enhancing polymorphisms (PEPs) area unit genetic variants that, once inherited, will result in improved athletic performance. Over a decade past, Montgomery and colleagues identified for the first time a positive association between a genetic variation, the insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting catalyst factor (ACE), and endurance exercise performance. They found that the I allele and the II genotype were overrepresented in intimate British high-altitude mountaineers compared to their healthy, non-athletic referents. This pioneer analysis highlighted the requirement for a clear phenotype definition. The latest advances in genetic technology allow further exploration of the genetic basis of elite performance to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and different genetic variants that may directly or indirectly affect athletic performance. For example, the SNP R577X (rs1815739) in ACTN3 has been proven to change the power and speed standing performance of elite athletes ([2], p. 3). The latest “human genetic map for performance and health-related fitness phenotypes” identified more than 200 genetic variants with potential for physical performance phenotypes or coaching responsiveness-related potential, but only about 20 polymorphisms were particularly relevant for elite athletic standing.

We want to observe that genetic sequence which may help individuals to know their dominant side in sports and train themselves for future. By which we can predict in what kind of sports an individual should have to be associated with. Talent identification in sports with help of genetic basis will open the door to get more personalized effective exercise planning for athletes and boost performance.

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2. Background

School playgrounds are the normal sites of basic talent identification systems wherever team captains choose, one by one, from the foremost to the smallest amount in a position and fascinating teammates. Nowadays, it seems, we should always instead ask our children for a cheek swab to genetically take a look at Possibility of their movement. Despite advances in science and technology, there are still questions about reliability and validity, so it is not clear if there is any advantage in effectiveness. We tend to critically discuss here the conceptual and moral questions that arise in leveraging a genetically based approach to athletic talent identification (TI). It is believed and acknowledged by scientific and sporting communities that genetic factors undoubtedly contribute to athletic performance. As of 2009, more than 200 genetic variants had been associated with physical performance, with more than 20 variants being associated with elite contestant status. Despite the lack of evidence, recent years have witnessed the rise of an emerging market of direct-to consumer marketing (DTC) tests that claim to be able to establish children’s athletic skills. Targeted customers embrace principally coaches and parents [3]. Recent analysis has targeted on trying to know the influence of heredity on athletic performance. This has led to the identification of multiple candidate genes that can help distinguish elite athletes from non-elite athletes. One of the most promising genes in this regard is ACTN3, which has undoubtedly been labeled the “speed gene” [4]. One among the foremost used advances during this field is that identification of variations in the DNA sequence, known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Genetic evaluations should be combined with other tools to get a correct identification of athletes and their respective fields to attain optimum success.

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3. Epigenetic in sports

Since the human genome was decoded 10 years ago, the challenge is to form a complete map of the genome, which can be based primarily on linear DNA sequences to describe individual theoretical talents. Ideally, the map should include all polymorphic regions, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertion deletions (indels), and copy number variations (CNV), as well as their potential effects. Phonological and physiological, such as genes and genes Interaction, gene–environment interaction and regulation of the epigenetic mechanism of genes. Therefore, the observation of exercise physiologists has turned to progress in molecular genetics that might provide answers to crucial queries in determination of individual limits of physical capability and skill. Considering the number of body systems (musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, nerve, etc.) that must take action, athletic performance is one of the most advanced characteristics of humans. Perhaps the first obvious difference between different professional athletes is the body shape (that is, height and body composition). Certain body types will naturally adapt to certain sports. On the far side body morphology, endurance, strength, and power are primary factors underlying athletic performance. The primary evidence for study genetic influences on physical capability has derived from various twin studies, starting in the late 1970s and continuing through the 1990s [5, 6]. The study explains variance in performance, capacity for endurance trainability, maximal oxygen consumption VO2max, strength and other key traits (physiological and psychological), was estimated to be approximately 50% [6, 7]. Aerobic endurance is the ability to maintain aerobic effort over time, such as running or cycling. At the most basic level, aerobic endurance requires the ability of the cardiovascular system to deliver oxygen to functional muscles and therefore the ability of muscles to use this oxygen. The most common measure of endurance is the rate of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). However, VO2max does not perfectly correlate with endurance performance (e.g. running a marathon), as other factors such as economy and ventilation threshold also affect performance.

Muscle strength is the ability of a muscle to receive force. Muscle strength.

is usually quantified by a rep’s maximum. Muscle strength is the interaction between strength and speed of muscle contraction (for example, an explosive movement such as a vertical jump). Strength and muscle strength are essential in sporting events such as sprinting, jumping, and weightlifting. Other side regulation of transcription by epigenetic modifications, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and a variety of DNA-binding transcription factors has a strong impact on many physiological processes. These factors are known to be plagued by internal and external influences [8]. However, the ability to test these often specific tissues can help identify talented athletes; however, quantifying epigenetic changes can, in some cases, be difficult. Many epigenetic changes are often tissue specific and transient [9]. Increasing knowledge in the field of epigenetics during recent years has had crucial consequences for classical quantitative genetic concerns [10]. Because the epigenome may be a major regulator of gene activity, the question arises as to how and to what extent it contributes to phenotypic variance. Epigenetic processes are partially reversible and can occur during different developmental stages [11]. Histone modifications are in a constantly changing state, while DNA methylation is generally thought to be more stable, which can have a lifelong influence on gene expression. Within individuals, the epigenetic structure is specific to the cell type [12]. and is passed from cell to cell (generation) by mitosis [6]. To effectively classify the genetic determination of performance characteristics, it is necessary to recognize that the epigenome may be inseparable from physical performance characteristics. Although it is difficult to explore the direct impact of epigenetic modifications on physical performance, there are many phenotypic characteristics that are intrinsically linked to exercise and exercise physiology.

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4. Identification of talent in sports

A plethora of talent identification problems can be found within the sub-disciplines of exercise science including motor learning, sports psychology, and sociology. The purpose of talent identification (TI) is that the earliest possible selection of auspicious athletes with the goal of systematically maximizing their potential. Top performance of athletes is not limited to the demand of fame, public recognition, sponsorship, and prize money but genetic inheritance contributes a prime role to hold such traits. The current example of the soccer player Gareth Bale, for whom Real Madrid paid a fee of €100 million, reflects the prevailing economic pressure [13].

There are different organizations which select the talent and develop them into competitive athletes. Any eligible youth can apply to those organizations, who will be called for selection trials. The admission to the schemes will be subject to fulfillment of the eligibility criteria and battery of test as well as skill tests. Although the standards are subjected to multidisciplinary research and detailed discussion, the optimal test design for a reliable prediction of talent has not yet been found [14, 15, 16]. However, although talent identification and development plans have become more and more popular in recent decades, there is still a lack of consensus on how to define or identify talents, and there’s no uniformly accepted theoretical framework to guide current practice. The success rate of talent identification and development plans is rarely evaluated, and the effectiveness of the application model is still very controversial.

Several authors dealing with any aspect of a ‘talented person’ note an inherent problem: the talent concept has been widely but indiscriminately observed and utilized [17]. Some models were based more on the hypothesis that talent is genetically transmitted or that success in a given domain is innately contributed (‘innate’ talent that is sometimes synonymously used with giftedness) [18, 19]. In this chapter, we unify the discoveries from these disciplines in a way to summarize and focus the traditional measurement methods of talent identification (TI) and emerging genetic testing (GT).

4.1 Conventional talent identification (TI)

The promotion of athletes basically follows two paths: talent identification (TI) (usually followed by selection) and talent development (providing the most suitable learning environment to reach this potential), which plays an important role in the pursuit of excellence. In many high-level organizations and teams, science-focused support systems (such as counseling, physical conditioning, and computer-based competition analysis) are now the foundation for cultivating elite athletes. However, due to the lack of scientific basis for most TID projects, many academics suggest that research work be transferred from IT and testing to TD and guidance. [20, 21]. Talent development programmes focus less on current abilities but more on providing athletes with appropriate practice conditions to promote their future potential in a given sport [22].

TI and TD models are associated with low predictive value and their validity and usefulness have been widely questioned [21, 23].

4.1.1 More about conventional talent identification (TI)

The recognition of talent includes the measurement and comparison of different characteristic values that determine the specific performance of sports. The test parameters come from a statistical path analysis, showing a single variable that largely describes complex performance. For example, sprinting performance depends primarily on body build, basic running speed, and technical or coordination skills [24]. Depend on these analysis TI tests assess atmospheric variables like weight, limb circumference, bone density, and physiological measures like maximum O2 uptake, aerobic, anaerobic endurance, strength, flexibility and sport specific skills such as running, jumping and diving performances. The analyst compares different age groups or performance levels in the cross-sectional design; if a top-down approach is adopted, the first-class athletes are compared with the poorer-performing athletes by evaluating certain differences. These differences that reveal the most significant differences between performance levels are identified as predictors. For example, among basketball players, vertical jump, arm width, and basketball pass a significant predictor [25]. However certain percentage of total variance of basketball performance could not be explained and observed to be an association of cognitive, psychological or sports specific factors such as decision making or game scene.

The cross-sectional designs of most talent studies hide other problems in terms of attribute assessment classification and transferability in into TI programmes. Further the classification into ‘talented’ ‘elite’ or ‘successful’ athletes versus ‘les- or untalented’ ‘non- or sub-elite’ or ‘unsuccessful’ [26, 27] differs between the studies and depends most evidently on the availability of athlete groups for the studies.

Many studies revealed only weak differences between high and lower performance levels that were insufficient for discrimination. Therefore, due to the dynamic and multidimensional nature of sport talent, traditional Talent Identification and Talent Development models are likely to exclude many, especially late maturing. This TI procedure focused on a limited range of parameters and select based on ‘one-off’ proficiency measures that fail to acknowledge that physical maturity and previous experience can influence performance.

4.2 Genetic identification of talent

Elite athlete (‘elite athlete refers to one who has competed at a national or international level in a given sport’) [28] status is a partially heritable trait, as are many of the underpinning physiological, anthropometrical, and psychological traits that contribute to elite performance. The phrase “genetic factors” refers to potential differences in DNA sequences between individuals. Although humans are considered to be 99.9% identical in genetic sequence, our human genome is composed of approximately 3 billion DNA “letters”, and even small differences between two genomes mean that millions of letters will have The difference [29]. These letters provide a series of instructions for the development and maintenance of our body structure, including physical and mental attributes.

The main question is no longer if there is a genetic component associated with elite athletic status and endurance/power trainability, but rather, which genetic profiles contribute to elite performance [30]. Genetic information can be collected for a talent identification program by simply addressing family history of the aspiring athlete: do young athletes have talented parents or siblings or family members who have the physical or mental characteristics that match the needs of the target sport? But this genetic information is neither accurate nor perfect, like other aspects of talent identification. The addition of genetic profiling is being considered to make the prediction and selection process more precise and quantifiable and thus make the “art” of athlete selection more measurable [31]. Several companies are beginning to market genetic tests for sport performance prediction based on this assumption. Genetic testing could theoretically be applied regardless of time and place, with results independent of an athlete’s age, training cycle, physical condition or daily health. From a governing body or club perspective, gene-based talent selection will help maximize economic resources. Around the world now a day, newborn screening is common practice for a variety of genetic disorders. In adults, genetic testing is used in many fields like diagnostic and predictive testing for any kind of disease condition and very promising carrier testing prior to pregnancy for both parents.

4.2.1 Can genetic testing identify talent for sport?

Recent years have witnessed the increase of an emerging market of direct-to consumer marketing (DTC) tests that claim to be ready to identify children’s athletic talents. Since the 1960s, genetic tests have been provided to patients for health-related reasons within a clinical setting [32] usually following a medical referral, genetic counseling, and upon obtaining informed consent, but now many tests are offered by different organizations. A host of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is available, where people submit DNA samples (usually cheek swabs) to the company, which then returns the genetic testing results directly to the consumer without the need for a healthcare provider. Keeping in mind of sports performance, genetic testing and profiling technologies are visualized as way to identify ones carrying particular combinations of gene sequence variants associated with particular physical or mental trait, or suited to success in particular sports. The genetic information would be paired with more typical analysis of talent selection in order to best select young athletes for early sport-specific training.

4.2.2 Examination for genetic trait analysis

Purpose: Among the non-athletic young man, first identify the effect of α-actinin-3 deficiency due to homozygosity for ACTN3 577X polymorphism on fast muscle fiber’s contractile & morphological properties.

In human body, two genes are encoded for α-actinin of skeletal muscle, α-actinin - 2 protein for ACTN2 & α-actinin-3 for ACTN3. Generally, ACTN2 expressed in all skeletal muscle fibers but ACTN3 expression is on restricted to type-II fast fibers, predominantly involved in powerful explosive contraction. So, the aim of the study is to analyze skinned muscle fibers to get more insight into the contractile and morphological properties of α-actinin-3 deficient and α-actinin-3 expressing muscle fibers in non-athletic young males.

Method

Participants

Young non-athletic males (20. 9 ± 0. 7 years) were selected from the total number of participants based on their characteristics, including stature, weight, physical activity level and tissue- Maximum isostatic knee extension torque at 45° knee flexion. The level of physical activity was determined during an interview to determine the amount and type of activity of the participants. All participants volunteered and gave their written consent to participate in this study, a process approved by the Medical Ethics Committee.

Muscle Biopsies:

Using needle aspiration biopsy, we first collected a sample of Vastus lateralis from the participant’s left leg. Prior to the biopsy, all participants were informed to abstain from strenuous physical activity. A small portion of muscle biopsies was inserted into TissueTek and frozen in nitrogen-cooled isopentane for immunohistochemical analysis. It was previously described that for myosin heavy chain isoforms, muscle infection was stained by immunohistochemistry. Samples used for the single-strand test were immediately placed at in cold stripping solution (0°C) and a bundle of filaments was cut lengthwise. At −20° C, packet skin peel solution was stored as a regular replacement for at least 5 days before the first experiment.

Single Muscle Fiber Experiments:

After counting, individual muscle fibers were tested for maximum trigger force normalized for fiber cross-sectional area (P0), maximum no-load velocity (V0), and force-velocity relationship. or passive tension properties on dynamic force profiles. Within 4 weeks after biopsy, all experiments were performed at 15°C. within four weeks after biopsy. Detailed protocols have been described previously. Briefly, after adjusting the length of the sarcomere to 2.5 m, the size of an optical fiber including the fiber length and the cross-section (CSA) was determined on the digital image of the optical fiber. When damaged fibers were removed prior to testing to exclude an effect on the contractile properties of the fibers, each fiber was visually examined for damage by shearing or processing of muscle biopsy results. P0 was determined as the maximum stabilizing force developed by the fiber when immersed in the activator solution (pCa 4.5) corrected for the CSA fiber. By slack test, no-load shortening rate (VO) was measured; each fiber is maximally activated and then rapidly shortened, so that force drops to baseline and re-evolves after a period proportional to stride length. in the number of serial sarcomas between different fibers, the V0 fiber was determined as the slope of the fitted line and expressed as fiber length per second (FL/s) to account for the difference tested. The yarn was subjected to 5–6 times three consecutive isometric load clamps to determine the force-velocity relationship. Based on Hill’s equation, the data obtained on an optical fiber are adjusted using an iterative nonlinear curve tuning procedure (Marquardt Levenberg algorithm). From the parameters of the adjusted force-velocity curve relationship, the fiber power (W/L) was determined. Passive tension was tested with a progressive stretch protocol while the fiber was still in pCa 9.0 solution. To evaluate the elastic properties of the fibers, Young’s modulus (kN/m2) and hysteresis (kN/m2) were calculated & After mechanical testing was completed, the fiber fragment was dissolved in 25 μl sample buffer SDS and stored at −20°C until MHC isoform content analyzed by SDSPAGE.

Genotyping

In, using the manufacturer’s procedure I Chemo magnetic Separation Module (PerkinElmer, Baesweiler, Germany), DNA was extracted from an EDTA blood sample at UZ Leuven. In this experiment, the TaqMan SNP genotyping assay, ACTN3 R577X polymorphism genotyping (rs. 1815739) was performed (ID C__590093_1, Applied Biosystems). Here, real-time qPCR was performed in 20 L of reaction mixture with 1 L of DNA, and other equipment required for the experiment was 8 L of RNase-free water, 1 L 20 × test mixture of TaqMan SNP genotyping and 10 μl of 2 × Taqman Universal PCR main combination (Applied Biosystems).

Statistical analysis

Using Student’s t-test, participant characteristics and a muscle fiber composition were compared between ACTN3 577RR and 577XX individuals. An ANOVA analysis in SAS version 9.2 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) measured single strands per fiber between the two groups of genotypes. A mixed process with a multilevel model is used to explain the dependence of multiple fibers in a single participant. For genotype differences, unbiased effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals are reported. Only Class I and Class IIa fibers are sufficiently abundant for a statistical analysis [33].

4.2.3 Genetic analysis: Genotype: Phenotype association studies using gene expression analysis

In deoxyribonucleic acid variation, the constitution is related to a technique for analyzing organic phenomenon victimization the “reverse” approach. During this approach, by suggests that of polymer expression studies, heterogeneousness in athletic performance was known by polymer expression studies, resulting in the confirmation and identification of deoxyribonucleic acid variants physiologically. Relevant and in theory to extend applied math power. Recent advances in biotechnology have enabled larger discovery of the genetic underpinnings of elite action, resulting in the identification of single ester polymorphisms (SNPs) and different genetic variants that have the potential to influence athletic performance, directly or indirectly. As an example, it’s been shown that Associate in Nursing SNP in ACTN3, R577X (rs1815739) modifies the attainment of elite speed-power jock standing two three.

Here within the transformation, ends up in the substitution of the bottom C to T common from the essential amino acid base (R) to Associate in Nursing early stop sequence (X). by ACTN3, αactinin3, expressed solely in fast-twitch muscle fibers, homozygous for the X factor lacking the cryptography macromolecule. Speed power performance, these genotypes might not be underrepresented within the elite speed power cohort thirty eight. On this subject, the primary study was performed by principle and colleagues. Within the athlete’s body, genetic polymorphisms will be studied extensively. The αactinin3 (ACTN3) Arg(R)577Ter(X) (rs1815739) polymorphism helps muscle macromolecule expression. Zdisc. α actinin3 stabilizes the contracted equipment, which might offer superior force absorption/transmission compared to kind I fibers. This macromolecule conjointly helps promote the formation of kind II fibers. Indeed, sarcomeric αactinins bind to calsarcins, interacting with calcineurin, a signal issue that plays a job within the specification of the kind of muscle fiber40. Over a billion individuals worldwide ar unable to precise to precise their muscle fibers (i.e., they are homozygous for the R577X nullallele). Exaggerated activity within the aerobic aerobic pathway forty two. Additionally, ACTN3-type mice conjointly exhibited higher resistance to fatigue, ablated muscle mass and muscle cell diameter, speedy contractions (IIB), and ablated fatigue. Muscle strength compared to wild kind mice [34]. In humans, it is shown that Olympic finalists in “strength” or “sprint” events (jump, throw, run a hundred meters) seldom specific the XX “null” genotype of the ACTN3 R577X polymorphism. With few exceptions, these results are duplicatable in some thus, though it’s usually calculable that it explains concerning one to three of the variance of the thirty six forty five forty six speed result constitution, ACTN3 then known as “speed” forty seven forty one forty eight. During this our ambition was to explore the result of ACTN3 polymorphisms on response to muscle injury in athletes taking part in ultra-endurance races.

4.2.4 Technical aspects and shortcomings of genetic testing (GT)

“whole genome sequencing” procedure helps to identify the base sequence of genome. This procedure also concerns complete range of coding and non-coding variants of human genome and rare variants. The reference sequence data can come from various dbSNP databases, which contain most of the SNPs estimated to be present in the human genome [35]. The final result of whole genome sequencing shows a list of genotypes in which at least one allele differs from the reference sequence [36]. This seems to work well with SNPs but structural variants (SV) do not change the copy number of the affected chromosomal region so it remains difficult for SVs and their association with complex traits. They found only 0.5–1% of the genome, at least 20% of all genetic variants in human and this play a part in phenotypic diversity between individuals. In genetic research A genome-wide association study (GWAS) is an approach to associate specific genetic variations with particular diseases, identifying statistical associations between genomic intervals and common complex traits without assumptions about the genomic location of the causal variants [37, 38]. In the field of exercise, for showing some findings [39] 21 of the 324,611 SNPs were identified, which accounted for 49% of the response to maximal oxygen uptake. To aerobic training. Compared with subjects with 9 or fewer SNPs, individuals showing at least 19 SNPs had a three-fold increase in VO2max [34] identified three quantitative trait loci (QTL) for glucose and insulin metabolism phenotypes in response to endurance exercise training. Despite all the above aspects, “genetic performance tests”, such as “GenEffect SPORT” (GenEffect, Falkendorf, Germany), are still for private use and seem to be widely used in the United States and Asia [40, 41]. These tests confirmed that they provided exercise-based genetic screening with real information about genetically determined susceptibility. The company called “GenEffect” claims that ACTN3 genetic screening indicates whether athletes are suitable for sprinting, strength and strength sports (RR genotype), endurance sports (XX) or mixed mode sports (RX), but it is clear that the classification has never been made public [42]. Recently published data from Russian endurance athletes primarily carry the RR or RX genotype, rather than the hypothetical XX genotype used for endurance performance. Think of companies like this that have chosen genes of uncertain scientific value [41, 43] Weak explanation of sum variance [41, 44, 45], and data collected from top adult athletes may not be transferred to children [40]. It is reasonable to call these tests “ridiculous”.

4.2.5 DTC (direct-to-consumer) tests

Through the medical science community, Gene Science has evolved over the past decade at an unimaginable rate. Not only are genetic tests popular in clinical settings, they are also available to the general public. Over the days, the price will drop. Tests are also getting much cheaper. At first, whole genome sequencing cost around $ 2.7 billion, now it costs less than $ 1,000 and continues to drop by 61. Companies can offer genetic testing to the public on a commercial basis because it costs less to analyze specific variants of the genome. Any genetic test should be assessed against four key criteria: analytical validity, clinical validity, clinical utility, and ethical, legal and social implications.

Thirty companies (Figure 1) were identified as offering marketed DTP genetic tests related to sports or physical activities or injuries. Almost half of the companies identified are based in the United States. Not all companies engage in both DTC marketing and sales through their websites.

Figure 1.

Number of companies providing direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing worldwide as of 2016, by category. Data has been obtained by using the search terms “genetic”, “test”, “exercise” and “sport” “DTC” in two popular search engines (Google and Bing) [46] © Statista 2021.

Despite the uncertainties in basic science, companies are beginning to commercialize genetic tests to predict athletic performance and athletes, parents, coaches and sports teams are starting to use them. Various companies and startups market genetic tests that claim to provide important information about future sports success (Figure 2).

Figure 2.

Companies providing sports-related DNA tests direct-to-consumer (DTC) for sport performance or related traits. Wagner, J. K., & Royal, C. D. [47].

In this test Genes included including. Some tests primarily focus on specific characteristics (soft tissue injuries), but most are often marketed as the result of “athletic performance” or some similar general performance characteristic. Alphaactinin3 (ACTN3) gene assay from Genetic Technologies Corp. patented in the United States (US 7,615,342 B2; issued November 10, 2009). The patent describes a specific genetic variation of the ACTN3 gene related to sports performance, and specifically describes that genetic information from this unique gene can be input into other performance tests when using talent selection programs. Consumers who purchase any of the testes shown in Figure 3 receive individual results for all of the genes tested along with their descriptions and explanations of success in different types of sports, such as endurance or strength.

Figure 3.

Examples of companies selling direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests for sport performance or related traits. Genetic test prices range from approximately US$80–200 across these different tests. Wagner, J. K., & Royal, C. D. [47].

Consumers World Health Organization purchase any of the testicles delineated in Figure 3 can receive personal results for all tested genes, yet as descriptions and explanations of their success in numerous sorts of exercise (such as endurance or strength). In some cases, firms additionally sell materials to live alternative physical or performance characteristics to be used in conjunction with genetic testing. The corporate has selected genes from the scientific literature as a part of the genetic testing kit, however as mentioned on top of, the lustiness of basic science is sometimes unsure. As an example, ACTN3 R577X tests for hollow polymorphism are obtained from completely different firms for many years66. Solely fourteen of the start known twenty two firms seem to still operate commercially, which implies that eight apparently have ceased operations, and twenty five new firms have emerged within the past 2 years. Many firms use the results of their customers’ genetic tests as opportunities to supply alternative aspects of their business activities, however need further fees, like coaching recommendation, particularly biological process supplements. There’s an agreement within the medical profession that genetic testing will solely be meted out once the relevant personnel have free and consent. This info will solely be provided if the patient has obtained adequate info regarding genetic testing (such because the risks, benefits, limitations, and effects of genetic testing with long-run or indirect effects).

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5. Inexpediency to use genetic information for talent identification

Identifying talent for future athletic performance is a major concern for many groups due to the challenges of finding and developing potential elite athletes. Since genetic factors are associated with many performance-related traits (strength, endurance, etc.), the natural tendency is to consider adding genetic testing to the capacity of asset identification programs. Genetic testing may positively inform talent identification is less certain. The application of genetic testing for health related purposes is becoming a popular topic in the field of medical sciences. In sports, athletes and coaches often focus on conflicting nutrition and training strategies to develop training performance. For this reason, athletes and coaches may risk the allure of direct genetic testing believing that their results will help improve performance. Giving inaccurate or unreliable advice can be harmful to the health of athletes. Other studies have consistently supported the view that the ACE and ACTN3 genotypes influence human performance compared to sprint / strength or endurance events. A systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that there is strong evidence for an association between the ACE II genotype and endurance events and between the ACTN3R allele and force events. Although there is a correlation between several genes and elite athletic performance, there is no scientific evidence for the predictive value of genetic profiles in athletic performance. Genetic profile testing alone currently cannot reliably predict athletic performance3 Most sports have a combination of sprint/strength and endurance components along with many other factors including many genetic, physical factors. Environmental and psychological. Genetic quality is just one of many factors that contribute to success in sports.

The Australian Law Reform Commission and the NHMRC, in their 2003 report Basically Yours, recommended that “discrimination laws be amended to explicitly prohibit unlawful discrimination based on status a person’s actual or perceived genetics”. This type of discrimination is addressed in the anti-discrimination laws of the Commonwealth, states and territories. Potentially, any of the grounds or provisions listed in Australian anti-discrimination law could involve discrimination on the basis of genetic status. Extending this premise to sport indicates that knowledge of an athlete’s genetic makeup cannot be used to preclude the selection of that sport for a particular program or team. It is also unethical to use genetic testing for affirmative action.

Several commercial organizations now make “predictions” of athletic ability using direct-to-consumer genetic testing. Direct-to-consumer testing provides genetic performance analysis related to athletic achievement and athletic talent primarily based on ACE and ACTN3. However, each company differs in the additional genes tested as part of a commercial trial. There are several cases involving the effects of genetic testing on individual athletes using direct-consumer testing, especially when it involves children. Sports activities. Inappropriate advice can, in turn, adversely affect an individual’s physical or psychological well-being. In a review, which uses genetic analysis to identify talent.

Current genetic testing is not predictive for identifying talent and should not be used by sports organizations, athletes, coaches or parents using ‘Using the genetic phenotype as an absolute predictor of sport’. Sport selection is unscientific and unethical.

Tests of this type in young athletes are particularly problematic because they can be misinterpreted and restrict children’s choices about potential activities. Given the multifactorial nature of human athletic performance, the information obtained from genetic testing should never be used for inclusion or exclusion in identifying talent.

So we have finally reached the point that genomics is a growing field in all branches of health including exercise and sports medicine. Advances in technology and cost reductions have made genetic research and genetic testing more accessible to many sports organizations and individuals. AIS is committed to keeping abreast of the latest scientific and technological developments without compromising the integrity of the sport. The AIS will maintain a clear and unchallenged focus on the safety and well-being of the athletes. This position statement explains the ethical framework within which genetic testing and genetic research will be carried out in Australian sport. The Australian Institute of Sports position for genetic research and testing for genetic testing of Australian athletes for health purposes will be ordered by a doctor. Genetic testing will be requested for health-related purposes along with genetic counseling. If people choose to undergo direct-to-consumer genetic testing, they should be prevented from following the recommendations of commercial companies without asking a doctor for clarification. As part of the research project, genetic testing will only be performed with the knowledge and written consent of the participants. Will clearly explain to athletes the purpose of using genetic information. Participants in genetic research will be informed of the possibility of unintentional discoveries, which may have a potential impact on the health of the participants or the health of their family members. Athletes have the right to refuse genetic testing. Athletes who refuse genetic testing will not be discriminated against. Before participating in the research, the management and confidentiality of genetic test results will be clearly communicated to athletes.

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6. Conclusion

Improving concussions in sports science among teens in school to young adults, furthermore because the military and their dependents, this report recommends actions which will be taken by a good vary of audiences, together with funding agencies. From analysis, state and faculty principals and athletic administrators, military organizations and instrumentality makers, furthermore as young athletes and their folks to enhance what’s acknowledged regarding concussions and scale back their events. Sports Related Concussions in Youth found that whereas some studies offer helpful data, a lot of remains unknown regarding the extent of concussions in young adults; a way to diagnose, manage and forestall concussions; and short and long run effects furthermore as head connected effects that do not cause concussion symptoms.

Sport culture negatively affects athletes’ self-reporting of concussion symptoms and their compliance with come pointers. Athletes, their teammates and, in some cases, coaches and fogeys might not be absolutely ancillary of the health threats exhibit by concussions. Likewise, recruits ar immersed in a very culture that has a commitment to duty and self-service, and also the severe nature of concussions will usually go forgotten. in step with Sports Related Concussions in Youth, if the youth sports community will believe that concussion could be a serious injury drawback and specialize in caring for concussion players till they absolutely recover, then the culture during which these athletes perform and contend can become a lot of safer. an improved understanding of the extent, causes, effects and hindrance of sports-related concussions is of significant importance to the health and well-being of young athletes. Our ambition is to supply analysis direction to attain this goal. Each four years, everybody waits for the athletic competition. we have a tendency to marvel at the gymnasts’ talent or guess what percentage gold medals Michael Phelps can win. we have a tendency to encourage athletes World Health Organization participate in events that have existed since the primary athletic competition. Running is that the most natural sport as a result of no special instrumentality is needed and may be practiced by anyone in sensible physical form. it’s thus outstanding that the sprint is dominated by one group: folks of West African descent. Of the highest five hundred sprinters within the 100 m, solely 2 ar good non-Americans; There are not any Asians or perhaps East Africans during this prime cluster. The foremost frequent rationalization for this development is that the atmosphere and education (“These kids got to run to high school once they ar young”, etc.). Scientists say the other. Most scientists and researchers agree that biology plays a very important role in distinctive these elite sprinters from the remainder of the herd. Whereas there ar several genes related to athletic performance, the one that’s best studied for its role in running is understood as ACTN3. ACTN3 is expressed in glycolytic kind II muscle fibers, that ar concerned in speedy and powerful contractions. There are 2 variants of this gene: R577R and R577X. Studies have urged that elite athletes in power sports (such as sprinting) ar additional doubtless to own the RR genotype, whereas elite endurance athletes ar additional doubtless to own the RR genotype. The chance is XX. However, the results vary betting on the population studied, as an example Africans versus Australians and Europeans. Even studies showing a positive association with strength sports and also the RR genotype or endurance sports and genotype XX assume that the ACTN3 cistron contributes solely a modest portion to elite sport.

Though scientific understanding of the ACTN3 genotype and athletic performance continues to be current, firms are attempting to take advantage of the association for years. as an example, Atlas Sports biology offers ACTN3 genetic testing for beneath $200. The take a look at is conferred to oldsters as a tool to create an wise call once selecting the simplest sport for his or her kid. The Atlas Sports biology web site states that the take a look at “… provides folks and coaches with early data regarding their child’s genetic predisposition to success in speed/strength or power sports. Enduring as a team or as AN individual”. while not a doubt, these firms are twisting the science behind the testing and exaggerating the importance of the ACTN3 genotype for athletic ability. These firms follow restrictive protocol and it’s tough for the central to intervene. AN recent locution applies to the present new technology: consumers beware! but, it’s doubtless that future genetic tests are going to be additional correct in predicting athletic ability. Such a take a look at may attractiveness to oldsters World Health Organization wish to create the foremost of their child’s free time as several kids lead terribly busy lives lately. Is directional {a kid|a toddler|a baby} to a sport they are sensible at a lot of completely different than hiring a music teacher for a music kid or an educator to assist speed up a precocious kid in math? Why not offer your child AN allowance if it’s available? [48].

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Written By

Anilendu Pramanik, Shubhraprakash Das and Sarit Dandapat

Submitted: 25 August 2021 Reviewed: 15 September 2021 Published: 30 October 2021