The interplay between exercise and genetics

In many cases, this discrepancy between our lifestyle and our biology causes us to fall sick to diseases which are often referred to as 'civilization diseases'. Particularly overeating (supernutrition) and physical inactivity can encourage the development of these diseases such as arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and various kinds of tumors. Unlike us, our ancestors from the Stone Age covered a distance of 30 to 40 km a day, while we only walk a few kilometers on average a day.

In each living cell we can find dynamic mechanisms that are able to modify our DNA sequences. These so-called 'epigenetic changes' have no influence on our genetic information, but are able to regulate gene activity, making it possible for individual genes to be up-regulated or switched off. In contrast to genetic mutations, epigenetic changes are usually temporary and potentially reversible. They ensure that the activity patterns of the genes can differ from cell to cell, even when their genetic information is identical in all body cells. Epigenetics also provide explanatory approaches for different pathologies in the case of identical twins, despite a theoretically identical genotypes.

Environmental factors, diet and lifestyle seem to influence epigenetic processes and thus indirectly may affect the genome. It is well known that a healthy diet and regular physical activity have a positive effect on our bodies and may act as protective factors, that can lower the risk of developing the aforementioned civilization diseases. Many studies assume that these epigenetic changes in DNA are causing this positive effect, at least partially.

The positive influence of exercise encourages millions of people to regularly go for a run or work out at the gym. While some manage to increase their physical fitness after only a short time, others may see hardly any results, despite intensive training for months. The interaction between physical activity and genetics is currently the focus of many research projects. Some studies have already identified genetic variations that influence the effectiveness of physical activities. In some cases, outcomes can greatly vary between individuals despite a similar training regime, often leading to differences in performance as well as changes in body composition. It seems, our genetic equipment, in part, determines how our bodies react to exercising. This is particularly evident in professional athletes: some studies point to a genetic predisposition, which, in combination with the appropriate training, facilitates top athletic performance.

Although not everyone is meant to become a professional athlete, the positive effect of exercising remains undisputed. For example, it has been shown that exercising can reduce the activity of genes associated with obesity and even alter the condition of tumor genes. While research into the influence of exercise on a genetic level is still in its infancy, it offers a promising perspective for future therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.

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