Investigation of the role of ACTN3 rs1815739 gene polymorphic variants on-field playing positions and genotype distributions in elite level male soccer players

Abstract

The alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3) gene, which encodes the sarcomeric protein alpha-actinin-3 in skeletal muscle fibers, is a significant marker linked to athletic performance. The distribution of ACTN3 gene alleles and genotypes between top athletes and sedentary individuals may result in substantial disparities in the development of physical performance attributes, including strength, speed, and endurance. This study sought to investigate the influence of ACTN3 rs1815739 gene polymorphisms in elite male soccer players concerning their on-field positions and to ascertain their genotype distributions. The research population comprises 78 male soccer players participating in professional leagues. The genotype distributions of the ACTN3 rs1815739 polymorphism among soccer players are as follows: CC genotype 34.62%, CT genotype 48.72%, and TT genotype 16.67%. The study revealed that professional soccer players with the TT genotype were present at a significantly low frequency in the general population. The distribution of ACTN3 gene polymorphisms exhibited a linear trend: CT>CC>TT. Additionally, no correlation was identified between the players' positions on the field and their gene polymorphisms. Consequently, ACTN3 R577X is considered an inadequate genetic marker for identifying a skilled soccer player, particularly when technical, tactical, and personal competencies that influence game outcomes are overlooked.