FOCAD influences the heart rate via myocyte turnover. The effect of this gene may change with age. Either way, the FOCAD rs17759424 C allele is known to associated with power athlete status, though its exact mechanism of action is currently unknown.

Michigan State University

The following short sequences of DNA have been used to identify chromosomes  involved in blood pressure control in elite power athletes:
- ACE
- AGT
- AGTR2
- ADRB2
- FOCAD

Genetic Markers Involved in Blood Pressure Control in Athletes

Maciejewska-Skrendo, A., Cięszczyk, P., Chycki, J., Sawczuk, M., & Smółka, W. (2019). Genetic Markers Associated with Power Athlete Status. Journal of human kinetics, 68, 17–36. https://doi.org/10.2478/hukin-2019-0053

Genetic Markers Associated with Power Athlete Status (Reference)

The rs4646994 variant resulting in the insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in the ACE gene is very well studied. The D allele is thought to be associated with increased strength and muscle volumes, as well as an increased percentage of fast-twitch muscle fibers. However, some studies indicate that it is rather associated with increased endurance performance instead.

ACE Gene

Individuals with the AGT Thr/Thr genotype have significantly increased left-ventricular mass than people with the Met/Met or Met/Thr genotype. Also, a there is a higher percentage of Thr/Thr genotype carriers among power athletes compared to that of endurance athletes and non-athletes.

AGT Gene

The AGTR2 Gene is associated with the dilatation of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure. The rs11091046 A allele of this gene is listed as a marker for power athletes due to its significant over-representation in power athletes in comparison to non-athletes. 

AGTR2 Gene

This gene codes for β-2 adrenergic receptors, which are important in blood pressure control among other functions. On this gene, the Gly16 allele, and the 27Glu variant of the Gln27Glu polymorphism have been found to be overrepresented in strength/power athletes compared to non-athletes.

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