Craft and structure: science 8

In the Spotlight: ACTN3

1. It’s common ideology to think that top athletes are successful because of “blood, sweat, and tears.” They all work hard, practice for hours on end, fuel their bodies with proper nutrients, and have an innate desire and determination to win. Winning is a result of their hard work. But a recent study at the Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre highlights a new twist on this performance formula. It determined that these environmental factors make up only a quarter of what it takes to be an elite athletic performer—the rest is based on genetics. They argue that a distinct set of genes will result in the ultimate athlete.
2. In the spotlight is the ACTN3 gene, sometimes referred to as the “speed gene.” This gene determines muscle fiber composition. A variant form of it can produce a high content of fast-twitch fibers which generate rapid, forceful muscle contractions. Those with the variant tend to have a higher likelihood of success in sprinting and strength sports. Usain Bolt, dubbed “the fastest man in the world,” has this variant. Another variant of the ACTN3 gene has shown to be more useful in endurance sports.
3. The popularity of genetic testing is on the rise. People partake in genetic testing to learn about their ancestry, to diagnose a disease, or to give insight into health risk factors. Is this useful information, or are they opening a can of worms? And what about testing for the ACTN3 gene? Proponents believe that genetic testing of ACTN3 may be useful for amateur athletes, those thinking about a career in sports, and parents who want to foresee their children’s athletic career.
4. Yes, the ACTN3 gene does have an effect on athletic performance, but, as the Copenhagen study showed, there are still other factors that determine sports success. Usain Bolt aside, Olympic-level sprinters have a surprisingly low frequency of the “speed gene” variant. This is because there’s so much more to becoming an Olympic athlete—they must have everything going for them, plus the right genes. Michael Jordan doesn’t have a variant of the gene, and he’s considered the No. 1 player in the history of basketball. His success was because of his talent and his team. Athletes in team sports can be successful regardless of their genetic makeup. Additionally, there are sports, such as sailing or shooting, that don’t require the athlete to have either fast muscle contractions or endurance, yet they still are legitimate sports that people can succeed at.
5. The test will not tell parents if their child will be a superathlete. It will not tell them if their child will be an Olympic sprinter. It will not tell them if their child will play in the NFL (National Football League). At the current cost of $\mathrm{\$}$‍150 per test, parents should seriously consider whether the result is worth the cost. A physical performed by a family doctor can also share insight into a child’s athletic future for a minimal cost.