The Role of Variability in Monoamine Transporter Genes in Sports Physiology

Abstract

Monoamine transporters (MATs) are responsible for the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline, modulating the concentration of these essential brain neurotransmitters and thus regulating behavior, mood, and cognitive functions. The study of the role of various genes in complex physiological processes is a promising area of neurobiology and sport physiology. Here, we summarize mounting evidence linking specific genetic variants of MAT genes to various aspects of sport performance. For example, the allele 10 of the dopamine transporter gene (DAT), the allele L of the serotonin transporter gene (SERT) and single-nucleotide polymorphism rs1805065 (Thr99Ile) of the noradrenaline transporter gene (NET) appear to correlate with higher performance in athletes due to resistance to stress, maintenance of motivation and cognitive behavioral competencies – qualities necessary for achieving success in sport. Thus, physiological performance in various sports may be partially genetically determined and controlled by the MAT genes.