Training for genes - how to design it?

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of this short review was not to be just another systematic report, but to highlight further research hypotheses regarding the challenges in performance genomics by focusing on three papers published in 2016, which offer innovative and promising approach that would be a breakthrough in more exact application of genetic data in practical work of sports experts and training design. Genes for sports. More than 200 single nucleotide polymorphisms and genetic traits associated with fitness performance have been reported in numerous studies, but genes for angiotensin converting enzyme and alpha-actinin-3 are most frequently associated with enhanced physical performance. Perspectives of epigenetics. Genotype-phenotype interactions include a wide range of molecular mechanisms with complex effects and interconnections. Gene adjusted training protocols. Using genetic profiling to match individual genotype with appropriate training modality may be a powerful tool providing personalized athletic training in the future. Conclusion. When applying genetic profiling prior to and during training programs, special consideration should be made to avoid athlete selection; it should be only used for inclusion, not for exclusion. Also, attention must be paid to social and ethical issues. Wider approach should include training interventional studies and non-athletic population in discovering new molecular pathways of muscle adaptation to exercise through genotype-phenotype interactions. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 175037: Muscular and neural factors of human locomotion and their adaptation]