Influence of AGT and AGTR1 Gene Polymorphisms on the Development of Arterial Hypertension and Physical Fitness Level in Martial Artists from the city of Perm

Abstract

To optimize training, it is crucial to understand martial artists' predisposition to developing physical qualities, as well as their susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of AGT and AGTR1 gene polymorphisms with the development of hypertension and physical fitness level (PFL) in martial artists from the city of Perm. The study sample included 430 individuals, including 312 martial artists and 118 schoolchildren who do not participate in sports (a control group). To investigate associations between AGT and AGTR1 allelic forms and hypertension, the subjects were divided into two groups: Group I, including subjects with normal blood pressure, and Group II, which included subjects with hypertension. qPCR was performed on DNA samples from subjects aged 10 to 16 years.The Pearson chi-square test (χ2) revealed a significant association between the AGT T/T genotype, the AGTR1 C/C genotype, and the development of arterial hypertension (χ2 = 102.4). An analysis of the relationship between martial arts and physical fitness level (PFL) revealed a tendency toward high levels of physical fitness across all disciplines (χ2 = 34.340). Spearman's rank correlation analysis revealed a positive association between the AGT T/T genotype (rs = 0.374) and the AGTR1 C/C genotype (rs = 0.390) with the level of physical condition in the subjects. Based on genetic analysis data obtained through rapid testing, individualized training programs at sports schools can be developed considering the specific athlete's genotype and physical fitness characteristics.