Search Results (199)

Algae-based supplements are gaining attention for their potential metabolic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties in sports nutrition. Methods: A 30-day pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted in 70 healthy male athletes (mean age 25.4 ± 4.9 years) from competitive soccer and handball teams. Participants were randomly assigned to a supplementation group (6 g/day of Ulva-derived algae powder) or a control group. Both groups followed identical training routines and adhered to standardized nutritional recommendations, including macronutrient distribution and permitted supplements (e.g., isotonic drinks, protein shakes). Biochemical markers analyzed at baseline and post-intervention included HbA1c, lipid profile, malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase, myeloperoxidase (MPO), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and cortisol. Genetic polymorphisms related to metabolic traits were also assessed. Results: Significant group × time interactions (p < 0.001) were observed for HbA1c, LDL, triglycerides, MDA, MPO, ESR, and cortisol, all of which improved in the algae-supplemented group. Correlation analysis revealed associations between HbA1c and LDL/TG as well as between cortisol and MPO. No significant genetic modulation of responses was detected, although a trend was noted for cortisol variation and insulin resistance risk. Conclusions: Algae-based supplementation led to favorable metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory changes. These findings suggest its potential utility as a nutritional strategy to support recovery in athletes during periods of high training load or competition. Full article

Background: Non-contact tissue injury in elite athletes is influenced by multiple factors, including genetic predisposition. Although previous research has identified several genetic markers associated with injury susceptibility, the role of the CD36 (cluster of differentiation 36) gene, a key regulator of fatty acid transport into skeletal muscle and other vital tissues, remains unexplored in this context. A single-nucleotide polymorphism in the CD36 gene (rs1761667) involves an A-to-G substitution (with three genotypes = AA and GG homozygotes and AG heterozygotes), and previous data have reported that individuals carrying the AA genotype of the CD36 gene show reduced expression of the CD36 protein and poorer lipid metabolism. Additionally, it has been recently found that the frequency of the AA genotype is significantly lower in elite cyclists compared to field hockey players. No previous study has examined the association between the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism and athlete injury risk. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential association between the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism and non-contact tissue injury susceptibility in elite Moroccan cyclists and field hockey players. Methods: Forty-three elite Moroccan male athletes, including 19 cyclists and 24 national team field hockey players, volunteered for this study. Non-contact tissue injuries during the 2022/2023 sports season have been recorded. Genotyping of the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism was carried out using Sanger sequencing. Chi-square tests were used to analyze the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and compare the genotypes and characteristics of athletes with and without non-contact injuries. Results: During the 2022/2023 sports season, 21.05% of cyclists (4 out of 19) and 33.33% of field hockey players (8 out of 24) experienced non-contact tissue injuries. The genotypic frequency was similar in the injured and non-injured groups among cyclists (χ² and p not calculated because “AA = 0” in both groups), field hockey players (χ² = 3.30, p = 0.19), and all athletes (χ² = 1.73, p = 0.41). Additionally, the dominant model of the CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism (AA+AG vs. GG) did not reveal a significant risk of non-contact injuries among cyclists (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.13–19.09, p > 0.9999), field hockey players (OR: infinity, 95% CI: 0.23-infinity, p = 0.53), and all athletes (OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 0.32–34.12, p = 0.65). Furthermore, the recessive model (AA vs. AG+GG) did not demonstrate any effect on the risk of non-contact injuries in cyclists (OR and 95% CI not calculated, p > 0.9999), field hockey players (OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.05–2.40, p = 0.38), and all athletes (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.10–2.60, p = 0.69). Conclusions: This study suggests that the association between specific genotypes (AA, AG, and GG) or alleles (A and G) of the CD36 gene and susceptibility to non-contact tissue injuries in Moroccan cycling and field hockey players is uncertain. Given the small sample size, further studies will be needed to explore and confirm these findings. Full article

Background: Previous studies have tested the association between the COL5A1 rs12722 polymorphism and the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Overall, their results are contradictory because most studies used relatively small samples and data from ACL ruptures during sport activities have been mixed with ruptures suffered in non-sporting contexts. Objective: To examine the association between the COL5A1 rs12722 polymorphism and the prevalence of ACL rupture in a homogeneous sample of professional male football players. Methods: A total of 268 professional male football players participated in this study. The COL5A1 rs12722 genotype (CC, CT and TT) was obtained from each player using genomic DNA samples obtained from a buccal swab and measured with PCR RFLP. Players with history of ACL rupture during their professional career were identified by the medical staff of each team. Only ACL injuries obtained during football exposure were considered for this investigation. In this process, we identified 49 ACL ruptures pertaining to 43 players suffered between 2013 and 2024. The situational pattern (i.e., attacking or defending, type of football action, moment of the season, match/training exposure, etc.) was also obtained for each injury. A sub-analysis of non-contact ACL ruptures was conducted, as these injuries are more likely to be influenced by genetic factors. Results: The distribution of genotypes was similar in players with history of ACL rupture (n = 43; CC/CT/TT, 24.4/48.9/26.7%) and with no history of ACL rupture (n = 225; 25.3/49.8/24.9%; p = 0.973). Overall, the prevalence of players with history of ACL injury was 16.2% for the whole group of CC players (11 out of 68 players), 16.4% for whole group of CT (22 out of 135 players) and 15.2% for the group of TT players (10 out of 66 players; p = 0.973). However, the COL5A1 rs12722 genotype affected the dominance of the injured leg (p = 0.012), the type of action that originated the injury (p = 0.047), and the distribution of non-contact ACL injuries depending on the time of the match (p = 0.020). Specifically, CC players suffered ruptures predominantly in the dominant leg, when landing or reaching (offensive actions) and in the last 15 min of the match (all p < 0.050). On the contrary, TT players had ACL ruptures predominantly in their non-dominant leg, when pressing the opponent (defensive actions) and in the first 15 min of the match (all p < 0.050). Conclusion: There was no association between any of the COL5A1 rs12722 genotypes and the overall prevalence of ACL rupture in professional football players. However, the COL5A1 rs12722 polymorphism appeared to influence specific characteristics of the injury, such as the type of action leading to the rupture and the timing within the match, suggesting a potential genetic contribution to injury susceptibility. Full article

Background/Objective: Infertility affects approximately 10–15% couples in industrialized countries. It has numerous causes, including genetic and environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and physiological disorders. The increasing prevalence of infertility underlines the importance of research into interventions to improve reproductive health, with a strong focus on physical activity. Infertility research was traditionally mainly directed toward female health. Although the male factor is being increasingly accepted as being equally important, this area remains under-researched. The current review focuses on the impact of physical activity on male fertility through its effects on immune function, the cardiovascular system, hormonal balance, metabolism, and physical interaction with the male reproductive system. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review of studies addressing the effects of physical activity on male fertility was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and the Web of Science. Mostly recent studies were included, with a small number of older ones included in cases when their content remains relevant. The review focused on articles studying the processes involved and associations between physical activity and male fertility through immune and cardiovascular effects, endocrine modulation, the influence on obesity and insulin metabolism, and the physical impact on the body. Results: The findings revealed the existence of a fairly strong consensus that moderate physical activity enhances semen quality, hormonal balance, and metabolic health, positively influencing male fertility. Physical activity reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, enhances cardiovascular functioning, and contributes to oxygen and nutrient supply to the reproductive organs. On the contrary, strenuous training can adversely affect fertility, mostly through hormonal disruption and oxidative stress. It can also have various indirect effects on fertility through sports-related behavior and incidents, such as wearing tight-fitting clothes or overheating. Conclusions: Physical activity can affect male fertility in numerous ways, positively influencing reproductive health when performed at a moderate intensity. Understanding the balance between beneficial and excessive exercise as well as the impact of incidental factors related to performing sports regularly are, thus, extremely important in optimizing lifestyle-oriented interventions aimed at male fertility improvement. Full article

The authors examine the transformative impact of technological advancements on the customary traditions associated with camels in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). We conducted 21 semi-structured interviews with Emirati camel owners/breeders, focusing on the effects of innovations in breeding, racing, beauty contests, and heritage preservation. The findings reveal that genetic technologies have reshaped camel husbandry by enhancing desirable traits, while introducing commercialization. In camel racing, robotic jockeys, biometric monitoring, and GPS tracking have revolutionized training and competition, making the sport a highly regulated, technology-driven industry. Similarly, camel beauty contests have been influenced by genetic selection, aesthetic standards, and controversial cosmetic enhancements. While these advancements have increased the economic value of camels, they have also altered traditional perceptions, raising concerns about the commodification of Emirati heritage. Additionally, online platforms and digital tools have facilitated the global promotion of camels, fostering connections between owners/breeders and enthusiasts, while introducing new modes of engagement. The study demonstrates how technological progress both preserves and challenges the customary traditions associated with camels, offering insights into the intersection of modernization and cultural heritage in the UAE. Full article

Background: Iron deficiency is a prevalent issue among elite athletes, particularly in endurance-based sports like football, where optimal iron status is crucial for aerobic capacity and performance. Despite the well-documented role of iron in oxygen transport and energy metabolism, the interplay between genetic polymorphisms, biochemical markers, and iron supplementation remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between genetic polymorphisms and iron status in professional football players, assess the impact of iron supplementation on athletic performance, and develop a predictive model for iron supplementation based on genetic and biochemical profiles. Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted over three seasons (2021–2024) with 48 male professional football players. Participants underwent genotyping for polymorphisms in ACE (rs4646994), ACTN3 (rs1815739), AMPD1 (rs17602729), CKM (rs8111989), HFE (rs1799945), and MLCK (rs2700352, rs28497577). Biochemical markers (ferritin, haemoglobin, haematocrit, serum iron) and performance metrics (GPS-derived data) were monitored. Iron supplementation (105 mg/day ferrous sulphate) was administered to players with ferritin <30 ng/mL. A Total Genotype Score (TGS) was calculated to evaluate genetic predisposition. Results: Players with “optimal” genotypes (ACE DD, ACTN3 CC, AMPD1 CC, HFE GC) required less iron supplementation (TGS = 51.25 vs. 41.32 a.u.; p = 0.013) and exhibited better performance metrics. Iron supplementation significantly improved haemoglobin and haematocrit in deficient players (p < 0.05). The TGS predicted supplementation need (AUC = 0.711; p = 0.023), with a threshold of 46.42 a.u. (OR = 5.23, 95% CI: 1.336–14.362; p = 0.017 for non-supplemented players). Furthermore, performance data revealed that iron-supplemented players had significantly lower competition time (1128.40 vs. 1972.84 min; p = 0.003), total distance covered (128,129.42 vs. 218,556.64 m; p = 0.005), and high-speed running in the 18–21 km/h (7.58 vs. 10.36 m/min; p = 0.007) and 21–24 km/h (4.43 vs. 6.13 m/min; p = 0.010) speed zones. They also started fewer matches (11.50 vs. 21.59; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Genetic profile combined with biochemical monitoring effectively predicts iron supplementation needs in athletes. Personalized nutrition strategies, guided by TGS, can optimize iron status and enhance performance in elite football players. This approach bridges a critical gap in sports science, offering a framework for precision nutrition in athletics. Full article

Background/Objectives: The interplay between genetics and athletic performance has garnered significant attention, particularly regarding performance-enhancing polymorphisms (PEPs) and their role in determining key traits that are critical for athletic success. Therefore, this study investigates the genetic predispositions related to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), and creatine kinase muscle-type (CKM) gene variants and their potential influence on elite point-fighting (PF) athletes. Methods: A total of 24 elite PF athletes (12 women and 12 men; age = 22.1 ± 5.8 years; body mass = 66.1 ± 15.4 kg; and height = 173.0 ± 9.5 cm, BMI = 21.8 ± 3.2 kg·m⁻²) participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected for DNA extraction and genotyping, analyzing the prevalence of key genetic markers, including the D allele and ID genotype for the ACE variant, the G allele and GG genotype for PPARα, and the A allele and AA genotype for CKM. Results: Genotyping revealed a high prevalence of key genetic markers among participants, with the D allele (58.33%) and ID genotype (66.67%) for the ACE variant, the G allele (77.08%) and GG genotype (54.17%) for PPARα, and the A allele (77.08%) with an AA genotype (62.50%) for CKM. The Total Genetic Score (TGS) analysis indicated a mixed-oriented genetic predisposition across the sample. Conclusions: Although PF athletes showed mixed aerobic/anaerobic genetic profiles, their training routines were primarily strength-oriented, suggesting a possible misalignment between genetic predispositions and their current training approach. These findings offer preliminary insights into the genetic characteristics of elite PF athletes and may inform future investigations into the potential role of genetic information in guiding training strategies. Full article

Equine skin mycoses are a significant concern in Kazakhstan’s livestock industry due to the country’s historical livestock farming practices, the development of equestrian sports, and food traditions. Skin infections are among the most common fungal infections in horses. Emerging pathogens of equine dermatophytosis include keratinophilic Chrysosporium spp., which can degrade and metabolize keratin found in superficial tissues. This, combined with their thermotolerance, contributes to their pathogenicity. In this study, we investigated the biological properties and pathogenicity of two Chrysosporium strains isolated from equine skin lesions in northern and central Kazakhstan. Our findings showed that the Chrysosporium isolates caused a variety of clinically expressed skin lesions and exhibited cultural and morphological similarities to Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Genetic identification using ribosomal gene sequencing revealed 98.9% identity with Chrysosporium kreiselii and Chrysosporium zonatum sequences in both cases. The C. kreiselii strain caused pronounced skin lesions typical of classic dermatomycoses, demonstrated both keratinophilic and keratinolytic properties, and showed resistance to antifungal drugs. In contrast, the C. zonatum strain, which caused atypical lesions such as dandruff and seborrhea, was more sensitive to antifungal agents and exhibited keratinophilic properties. Our results highlight the emergence of new pathogenic Chrysosporium strains responsible for skin pathology in horses in Kazakhstan. We recommend that the identification of Chrysosporium skin infections in horses in Kazakhstan be followed by a comprehensive retrospective analysis of newly identified pathogens, including a full characterization of their pathogenicity. Full article

Florida bass (Micropterus salmoides) and largemouth bass (Micropterus nigricans) are iconic sport fish that hybridize readily, influencing fishery management practices. While the Florida bass has been introduced to various U.S. states to create trophy fisheries, its genetic introgression into native populations can lead to ecological and genetic consequences. Recognizing the need to assess Florida bass presence to guide future management directions, diagnostic SNPs were genotyped for 856 putative largemouth bass across 31 sampling locations across the state of West Virginia. Florida bass controls and a reduced representative sample of 226 individuals from 19 sampling locations were sequenced using the genotype-by-sequencing dd-RAD protocol. The results from the two genomic investigations found no Florida bass ancestry in West Virginia populations, suggesting either no introduction or failed reproductive success of Florida bass in the state. Among West Virginia largemouth bass populations, unique genetic ancestries were found predominantly in introduced non-native largemouth bass populations, indicating that the only sub-structuring in the state is a result of stocking non-native ancestries into the state. Genomic diversity was found to be higher in Ohio River pools compared to inland reservoirs, as well as showing higher levels of potential inbreeding. These results underscore the need to preserve the genetic integrity of native Ohio River strain largemouth bass and prevent the introduction of the Florida bass or F₁ hybrids into the Ohio River and other watersheds of West Virginia. Management recommendations include prioritizing the stocking of native strain bass to mitigate inbreeding and avoid introducing Florida bass to conserve genetic diversity. Full article

Background: The aim of our study is to determine the genotype distribution of ADRA2A rs1800544 gene polymorphism in fencing athletes and to compare the results with the sedentary control group. In addition, we intend to compare these genotype results with the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and Sports Injury Anxiety Scale (SIAS) applied to the fencing group. Methods: Buccal epithelial cells were collected from 14 volunteer fencing athletes and 22 sedentary individuals who participated in the study and DNA was isolated. ADRA2A rs1800544 polymorphism was analyzed using Real-Time PCR. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software. Results: In the study, ADRA2A rs1800544 polymorphism was examined and 43% CG genotype, 57% CC genotype was found in fencers, and GG genotype was not detected. In the sedentary control group, 36.4% CC genotype, 45.5% CG genotype, and 18.1% GG genotype were detected; in both groups, C allele was found at a higher percentage than G allele. Although there were differences in the percentages of genotypes in the study and control groups, no statistically significant difference was found. Conclusions: The results obtained in our study reveal genotype distributions in line with the literature on ADRA2A rs1800544 gene region. Since fencing is a sport that requires attention and concentration, the distribution of gene regions associated with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder is important. The results of this study contribute to the understanding of genotype distributions in fencing athletes; however, given the study’s limitations, such as the small sample size, lack of psychological assessment methods, and absence of noradrenaline level measurement, further research is needed before these findings can be considered for the development of personalized training programs based on ADRA2A rs1800544 polymorphism. Full article

Background/Objectives: Human-driven selection has shaped modern horse breeds into highly specialized athletes, particularly in racing. Arabian horses, renowned for their endurance, provide an excellent model for studying molecular adaptations to exercise. This study aimed to identify genes commonly influenced by physical exertion in the gluteus medius muscle and whole blood of Arabian horses during their first year of race training. Methods: RNA sequencing of sixteen pure-breed Arabian horses was used to analyze transcriptomic changes at three key training stages. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified to explore their role in endurance and metabolic adaptation. Results: Seven genes—RCHY1, PIH1D1, IVD, FABP3, ANKRD2, USP13, and CRYAB—were consistently deregulated across tissues and training periods. These genes are involved in muscle remodeling, metabolism, oxidative stress response, and protein turnover. ANKRD2 was associated with mechanosensing and muscle adaptation, FABP3 with fatty acid metabolism, and USP13 with ubiquitination-related pathways crucial for muscle recovery and energy regulation. The transcriptomic overlap between muscle and blood suggests potential systemic biomarkers for athletic performance and endurance. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the importance of multi-tissue transcriptomic profiling in understanding exercise-induced molecular adaptations. The identified genes warrant further investigation as potential molecular markers for monitoring training progression and athletic potential in endurance horses. This study contributes to the growing field of equine sports genetics and may offer translational insights into human sports performance. Full article

The primary aim of this scoping review was to identify practical risk factors associated with an elevated risk in anterior cruciate ligament injury (ACLI) in elite male field team athletes that can be applied meaningfully in screening tools by team support personnel. Five relevant databases were searched (SportsDISCUS, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) following the PRISMA-ScR protocol using the criteria: (1) written in English and peer-reviewed; (2) full-text available; (3) discussed ACLI screening tests; (4) an elite athlete cohort; (5) males; (6) field team sport. The search identified 962 manuscripts, with nine manuscripts meeting the inclusion criteria. Field sports represented were soccer (n = 7), American football (n = 1), and a mixed-sport cohort of soccer, rugby, and field hockey (n = 1). Manuscripts reported modifiable risk factors (the joint range of motion n = 1, biomechanics n = 3, and strength n = 1) and non-modifiable (anatomical n = 2 and genetics n = 2). Whilst the joint range of motion screening indicated statistical significance to ACLI risk, there was little predictive value. Non-modifiable risk factors were significantly correlated to ACLI and reported a higher predictive capacity for ACLI risk. There is limited systematic research investigating and providing predictive insight for screening tests of ACLI risk in elite male team sport athletes. Future prospective investigations should consider the validity of ACLI screening tests in elite male field-based sport populations, and establish efficacy, so that sporting clubs can confidently implement screening tests of value into practice. Full article

Endurance performance is primarily determined by three key physiological pillars: maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), anaerobic threshold, and economy of movement. Recent research has suggested physiological resilience as a potential fourth dimension, referring to an athlete’s ability to sustain performance despite accumulating fatigue. While the role of genetic factors in endurance has been widely studied, their influence on these pillars, particularly on fatigue resistance and long-term adaptation, remains an area of growing interest. This narrative review explores the genomic basis of endurance performance, analyzing genetic contributions to oxygen transport, metabolic efficiency, muscle composition, and recovery. Additionally, it discusses how genetic variability may modulate an athlete’s response to training, including aspects of physiological adaptation, injury susceptibility, sleep, and nutrition. The review highlights physiological resilience in the context of endurance sports, discussing its connection to neuromuscular and metabolic regulation. By integrating genetic insights with established physiological principles, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on endurance adaptation. Future research directions are outlined to enhance our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of endurance, with implications for personalized training and performance optimization. Full article

Background/Objectives: Since its emergence in 2020, researchers worldwide have been collaborating to better understand the SARS-CoV-2 disease’s pathophysiology. Disease severity can vary based on several factors, including comorbidities and genetic variations. Notably, recent studies have highlighted the role of genes associated with athletic performance, such as ACE, ACTN3, and PPARGC1A, in influencing muscle function, cardiovascular health, and the body’s metabolic response. Given that these genes also impact oxidative metabolism, inflammation, and respiratory efficiency, we hypothesized that they might play a critical role in the host’s response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aimed to investigate the association between disease severity and genetic polymorphisms in these sport performance-related genes, specifically ACE rs4646994, ACTN3 rs1815739, and PPARGC1A rs8192678. Methods: A total of 422 COVID-19-positive patients were included in this study. The participants were divided into three groups: a severe group (77 patients) requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission, a mild group (300 patients) exhibiting at least one symptom, and an asymptomatic control group. Genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR. Results: The D allele and DD genotype of ACE and the T allele and TT genotype of ACTN3 were found to confer protective effects against severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conversely, the PPARGC1A TC genotype and the ACE-PPARGC1A ins/ins + TC combined genotype were associated with increased disease severity (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although vaccination has reduced the severity of SARS-CoV-2, the virus continues to impact human health. Inter-individual differences due to these genetic variations will broaden the horizon of knowledge on the pathophysiology of the disease. Full article

This study examines the impact of momentum dynamics on tennis match outcomes, addressing the limitations of traditional performance prediction methods. Using data from the 2023 Wimbledon men’s singles matches, a data-driven framework was developed to analyze factors influencing player performance. Factor analysis identified key independent variables, while a decision-tree model optimized through random-forest and genetic algorithm techniques was employed to predict match outcomes. Momentum was quantified using the Kendall consistency test, which revealed a significant correlation between momentum shifts and match results. The analysis highlighted that variations in momentum difference between players are crucial predictors, achieving a success rate of $78\%$. Visualizations further demonstrated that momentum fluctuations closely align with critical match events, offering a detailed understanding of performance dynamics. At the same time, the model has also been applied to the prediction of other tennis games and even table tennis games. It can adaptively adjust the K value and has a good fitting effect.Compared to conventional statistical methods, which often overlook the role of momentum, this model provides deeper insights into the interplay between momentum and match outcomes. While the framework shows strong applicability to tennis, its extension to other sports, such as table tennis, requires further exploration. These findings underscore the importance of momentum in competitive sports, offering new perspectives for match analysis, player training, and strategic planning and paving the way for future research into momentum dynamics across various sports disciplines. Full article