The BASES Expert Statement on genetic research and testing in sport and exercise science

Williams, AG, Miah, A, Harris, RC, Montgomery, HE and Wackerhage, H (2012) The BASES Expert Statement on genetic research and testing in sport and exercise science. The Sport and Exercise Scientist, 31 (Spring). pp. 14-15. ISSN 1754-3444

Preview

Published Version Download (352kB) | Preview

Abstract

Differences in the DNA sequence between humans are responsible for much of the variation in sport- and exercise-related traits. For example, the heritability (the proportion of phenotypic variation in a population which is due to inter-individual genetic variation) may be as high as 50% for maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (Bouchard et al., 1998) and its trainability (Bouchard et al., 1999). However, we know comparatively little about the molecular variations in the DNA sequence that add up to the often 50% or more estimated heritability for major sport- and exercise-related traits such as cardiovascular fitness, strength, maximal-intensity exercise ability and muscle fibre composition (reviewed in Hagberg et al., 2011), although the science is progressing. Consequently, an era where genetic testing in sport and exercise contexts becomes commonplace is approaching, and this raises several ethical concerns. This statement summarises an original BASES position stand on this topic (Williams et al., 2007).