topic 12 Flashcards
Role of genes in inheritance of human characteristics
Chromosomes mainly made from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sections of which are reffered to as genes
DNA replicates during cell division to pass on the genes to new cells
Children inherit genes from parents via the sex cells (gametes) 50/50 many combinations are possible
Human characteristics
Phenotype is determined by their genes (genotype
Characteristics expressed developmentally by genes
eye colour, gender
Characteristics require environmental switch
height, VO2 Max
genes influencing human characteristics
genes code for the production of proteins (responsible development of and individual)
genes can be switched off or on depending on internal or external factors, so that characteristics influencing athletic performance can change
multiple genes determine the measurable heritable characteristics for each individual so it is unlikely that a single or even a few genetic elements are associated with superior atheletic performance
Contribution of genetic and environmental factors on performance in different sports
Characteristics influenced by genetics: height, muscle fibre type, anaerobic threshold, lung capacity and flexibility
Environmental factors include physical training, nutrition, technological aids and climate
Training can take you closer to genetically controlled ceiling
Elite athletes can be distinguished from less well performing athletes due to genetic chracteristics and training histories
what is genetic screening
process of testing a population for a genetic disease to identify if they have the disease or the potential to pass it on to offspring
Genetic tests are performed on
blood, hair, skin, amiotic fluid (fetus)
implication on sports, exercise and health
identidy life-threatening conditions like cardiac death
predict susceptibility to injury (connective tissue disorder)
ethical involuntary exclusion from or descrimination in certain sports
the possibility of gene doping in the future to improve athletic performance
