Genetics And Epigenetics In Surfing: More Than Just Prediction

The role of genetic studies in understanding human performance is gaining recognition in sports science. Epigenetics examines how environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and training regimens influence gene expression. This study focuses on three key genes: ACTN3 (associated with fast-twitch muscle fibers and performance in speed sports), MCT1 (related to lactate transport and metabolic efficiency), and COL5A1 (involved in collagen formation, flexibility, and injury susceptibility). Association between these genes with sports performance and championship results are interesting and intriguing and this is the aim of this study. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze gene expression of specific genes associated with sports performance in elite surfing athletes from Brazilian National Team and describe intruiguing analysis of its associations with competition results. METHODS: Genetic samples were collected via oral mucosa for DNA analysis of the ACTN3, MCT1, and COL5A1 genes of 17 elite athletes (27 ± 7 yrs; 9 M and 8F) of the Brazilian Surfing National Team (5 Pan-Am Champions and 5 World Champions). The athletes compete in 4 different modalities in surfing: Short Board and Long Board Surfing, Stand Up Paddle Wave Surfing and Race. Descriptive analysis was used to express the datas. RESULTS: For the ACTN3 gene, 4 athletes were found homozygous for the R allele (RR genotype: fast-twitch muscle fibers/explosive strength and power): 1 was World Champion and 2 were Pan-Am Champions of an endurance modality - Stand Up Race, unlikely expected to be successful. 10 athletes (58.8%) were heterozygous (RX genotype), and 3 were homozygous for the X allele (XX genotype). Regarding the MCT1 gene, 41% were homozygous (GG), 35% were heterozygous (GT), and 24% were homozygous for the T allele (TT). For the COL5A1 gene, 53% had the CC genotype, 35% were CT, and 12% were TT, with 1 of TT athlete being a 36 yrs and World Champion, despite the genotype's association with injury risk. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that genetic testing can guide athlete development in terms of training, recovery, and injury prevention. The findings highlight the potential role of epigenetics in athletic success, particularly in surfing, emphasizing the need to contextualize gene expression within performance optimization strategies.