Analysis of DRD2 Gene Polymorphism in the Context of Personality Traits in a Group of Athletes

• Main Authors: Krzysztof Chmielowiec, Monika Michałowska-Sawczyn, Jolanta Masiak, Jolanta Chmielowiec, Grzegorz Trybek, Marta Niewczas, Wojciech Czarny, Paweł Cieszczyk, Myosotis Massidda, Patrizia Proia, Anna Grzywacz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-08-01
• Series: Genes
• Subjects: genetics; personality traits; dopamine; D2 receptor; athletes
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4425/12/8/1219

The presented study showed the relationship between dopamine receptor gene polymorphism and personality traits in athletes training in martial arts. Behavioral modulation resulting from a balance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine to inactivation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dysregulation of various pathways involved in attention and impulse control processes; Methods: The study was conducted among martial arts athletes. The study group included 258 volunteers and 284 controls. The genetic test was performed using the real-time PCR method; psychological tests were performed using standardized TCI questionnaires. All analyses were performed using STATISTICA 13. Results: Interaction between martial arts and DRD2 rs1799732 (manual) G/-(VIC/FAM)-ins/del and RD- Harm avoidance and Reward Dependence scale were demonstrated. In athletes, a lower Reward Dependence scale score was associated with the DRD2 rs1799732 (manual)-/-polymorphism compared to the control group. Conclusions: It seems justified to study not only genetic aspects related to brain transmission dopamine in martial arts athletes. In the studied athletes, the features related to reward addiction and harm avoidance are particularly important in connection with the dopaminergic reward system in the brain.