Epigenetic Alterations in Sports-Related Injuries

Abstract

It is a well-known fact that physical activity benefits people of all age groups. However, highly intensive training, maladaptation, improper equipment, and lack of sufficient rest lead to contusions and sports-related injuries. From the perspectives of sports professionals and those performing regular–amateur sports activities, it is important to maintain proper levels of training, without encountering frequent injuries. The bodily responses to physical stress and intensive physical activity are detected on many levels. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone protein methylation, acetylation, and miRNA expression occur in response to environmental changes and play fundamental roles in the regulation of cellular activities. In the current review, we summarise the available knowledge on epigenetic alterations present in tissues and organs (e.g., muscles, the brain, tendons, and bones) as a consequence of sports-related injuries. Epigenetic mechanism observations have the potential to become useful tools in sports medicine, as predictors of approaching pathophysiological alterations and injury biomarkers that have already taken place.

Dysregulation of miR-155 Expression in Professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Fighters

“…No significant difference in LINE-1 methylation between the two groups indicates that, despite the stress of MMA training, these fighters are not at any greater risk of developing dysregulation of global methylation (Figure 1). More precise measurements of DNA methylation at specific gene regions may reveal differences in MMA fighters relative to an athlete control group and support the growing body of literature linking epigenetic modifications with TBI [9,22] including TBI experienced in contact sport competition [23]. While DNA methylation appeared stable among experimental groups, differential expression of select miRNAs was readily identified between MMA fighters and the matched athlete's control group (Table 2).…”

Serum microRNAs associated with concussion in football players

“…In this exploratory study, we have utilized serum samples collected over a period of 4 months during a college practice and game season and determined the relative expression of selected miRNAs in concussed players vs. matched (same position in the field) controls. Since physical exercise profoundly affects miRNA expression ( 43 – 45 ), we reasoned that the best control for the concussed players would be a player exposed to a similar physical exercise but without TBI. The serum in control players was obtained at the same time as the concussed players ( Table 3 ).…”

Fractures in Thoroughbred racing and the potential for pre‐race identification of horses at risk

“…Fracture risk is a complex trait and is likely influenced by the cumulative effects of many genetic and environmental variables. Findings from studies on human athletes into associations between SNPs within genes related to differentiation and activity of cells of osteoblastic and osteoclastic lineages, 90 vitamin D receptor, 91 bone geometric properties, 92 bone mineral density 93 and type 1 collagen production with risk of exercise-related fractures have produced inconsistent results. 94,95 The effects of many variables that can influence the expression of genes adds to the complexity of linking specific genotypes to risk of injury.…”