PPARα Intron 7 G/C Polymorphism, Physical Strength Phenotypes and Bone Health Status in Malay Female Athletes

Background: This research examined the distribution and association of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARa) intron 7 G/C polymorphism with aerobic and anaerobic capacities, isokinetic muscular performance and bone speed of sound in Malay female athletes. Materials and Methods: A total of 64 young Malay female athletes (who competed at national level competitions) and non-athletes were recruited. DNA was taken from the subjects' blood samples. PCR-RFLP technique was used to determine the genotype of PPARa intron 7 G/C polymorphism. Participants' body composition, lung function parameters, estimated VO2max and anaerobic capacity were measured. Participants' leg and arm isokinetic muscular the maximum torque (strength), maximum torque per body weight and average power have been evaluated. Tibial and radial bone speed of sound was assessed using qualitative ultrasound (indicator of bone mineral density). Results: GG genotype was the most frequent PPARa genotype observed in both Malay female athlete and non-athlete groups. The GG genotype in the non-athlete group was somewhat greater than in the athletic group. Athletes with GC genotype exhibited substantially greater (p < 0.05) isokinetic muscular strength in the arm compared to athletes with GG genotype. In addition, GC genotype carriers demonstrate significantly elevated bone speeds of arm sound than GG genotype carriers. Athletes with GG genotype showed significantly higher (p < 0.01) forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) compared to non-athletes with GG genotype. GG-genotype athletes were substantially have higher estimated VO2max, Wingate mean power, peak power, and anaerobic capacities in comparison to non-athletes with GG genotype. Conclusions: In Malay female athletes, GC genotype appears to be associated to increased muscular strength and improved bone health.