Genomics of elite sporting performance: what little we know and necessary advances

Br J Sports Med. 2013 Jun;47(9):550-5. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2013-092400. Epub 2013 Apr 30.

Abstract

Numerous reports of genetic associations with performance-related phenotypes have been published over the past three decades but there has been limited progress in discovering and characterising the genetic contribution to elite/world-class performance, mainly owing to few coordinated research efforts involving major funding initiatives/consortia and the use primarily of the candidate gene analysis approach. It is timely that exercise genomics research has moved into a new era utilising well-phenotyped, large cohorts and genome-wide technologies--approaches that have begun to elucidate the genetic basis of other complex traits/diseases. This review summarises the most recent and significant findings from sports genetics and explores future trends and possibilities.

Keywords: Genetics/sex testing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Performance / physiology*
  • Forecasting
  • Genes / genetics
  • Genomics / trends*
  • Humans
  • Polymorphism, Genetic / genetics
  • Racial Groups / genetics*
  • Research Design
  • Running / physiology
  • Sports Medicine / trends