Abstract
The DMT1 gene encodes divalent metal transporter 1, a membrane iron transport protein. Divalent metal transporter 1 influences cellular iron availability, which might further affect aerobic exercise capacity. Short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphisms have been used as genetic markers in the literature, yet the STR polymorphisms of the DMT1 gene have not been well studied. In this current study, we explored the polymorphisms of the DMT1 gene in a group of elite long-distance runners and controls, by using the PCR-RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) and Gene scan technology. We found that the genotype frequency of the homozygous 258 bp STR polymorphism of the DMT1 gene (258 bp/258 bp) was significantly higher in the athlete group than in the controls (χ2 = 14.01, p = 0.006) so does the allele frequency of the 258 bp STR polymorphism (χ2 = 12.867, p = 0.008). These data suggested that the STR polymorphism of the DMT1 gene might be correlated with aerobic exercise capacity and the 258 bp homozygous (25 bp/258 bp) could be used as a molecular marker for the talent identification of elite long-distance runners.
Highlights
Divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) is a major membrane transport protein, which uptakes nonheme iron within the lumen [1]
We checked whether there was a gender difference in the genotype frequency of the DMT1 Short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphism; we did not find a significant difference between males and females among the athlete group or the control group
It is possible that there could be differences with the distribution of DMT1 STR polymorphisms between different ethnic groups (Caucasians for the previous study and Asians for the current study). Data from this current study suggested that there was a strong association between the DMT1 STR polymorphism and likelihood of being elite long-distance runners
Summary
Divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) is a major membrane transport protein, which uptakes nonheme iron within the lumen [1]. Free iron element induces the production of free radicals, leading to an increase of human lipid peroxidation level and even tissue damage. Both iron deficiency and iron excess can directly affect exercise ability [6]. Because of its compliance with Mendelian Inheritance, i.e., its codominant heredity, STR is widely used in association studies including genetic phenotype, gene mapping, genetic disease diagnosis, and paternity tests. It is known as the second generation of genetic markers. We explored the STR microsatellite polymorphisms of the DMT1 gene in elite long-distance runners and the controls, with the aim to identity molecular genetic markers for talent identification of elite longdistance runners
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