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Genetics of physical performance in U.S. Marines
Author(s) -
Jensen Andrew,
Congalton Robert,
Niederberger Brenda,
Jaworski Rebecca,
Kelly Karen
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.1212.3
Subject(s) - genotyping , genotype , single nucleotide polymorphism , snp , allele , snp genotyping , genetics , medicine , zoology , biology , gene
This study evaluated genotypes of U.S. Marine Corps infantrymen on characteristics representative of physical performance. Whole blood was drawn from Marines (N=170; 19.9 ± 0.4 yrs, 81.2 ± 0.7 kg, 179.5 ± 0.8 cm) and DNA was extracted using the Gentra Puregene Blood Kit; genotyping was performed with TaqMan allelic discrimination technology. Results of the genotyping revealed that 3 of the 19 SNPs assessed were significantly associated with physical performance attributes. The C allele variant of the rs4149056 SNP was found to be associated with a higher body weight (CC/CT: n= 45, 84.2 ± 1.5; TT: n= 125, 80.1 ± 0.8; P= 0.02 kg). Muscle‐specific creatine kinase Ncol SNP, rs8111989, was associated with max number of pull‐ups performed; the TT genotype bested the C allele variants (CC/CT: n= 74, 13.0 ± 0.5; TT: n= 96, 14.4 ± 0.5; P= 0.05 max # pull‐ups). The interleukin‐6–174 SNP, rs1800795, was associated with 3‐mile run time; with the CC genotypes having lower run times (CC: n= 77, 20.78 ± 0.18; CG/GG: n= 93, 21.57 ± 0.17; P= 0.002 min). These data advocate a relationship between certain SNPs and physical performance in U.S. Marines; however, these data do not account for training and individual experiences that may influence performance. At this time, these results suggest that the genetic profiles of U.S. Marines are not necessarily indicative of physical performance, or more importantly combat performance.