Born to Play: Can genes predict if your child will be a star athlete?
Would it be possible for you, or for that matter, anyone else to say whether or not your child will be a star athlete or not?
Well, the Colorado-based Atlas Sports Genetics claim they can do just that. Well, not exactly, as I think. For a price of $170, they will conduct a DNA test, which will tell you something like that. All you have to do is swab the inside of your child's mouth and send that DNA sample to Atlas for analysis.
Once they have the DNA sample, they will focus on the gene ACTN 3. Variants in the two copies of the gene will be able to tell you whether you're suited for endurance, power or both kind of sports.
"It's a good predictor of which sports you could guide your child into," says Nat Carruthers of Atlas Sports.
I think this test tells you which area of sports your child should focus on and not if your child will become a star athlete or not. Anyway, it is still a good progress in the use of genetics in the sports world.
I found this to be very interesting because it makes me wonder what characteristics in a person are NOT affected by their genetic makeup. I always figured that some people are probably just born more athletic than others; however, it is very interesting to see that there is an actual gene variant that cause people to be more suited for power, endurance, etc., as stated in the article. It also makes me wonder what they will do with this information if the research progresses.
ReplyDeleteI also found this article interesting. I've always thought that great athletic ability comes with determination and countless hours, days, or years of practice. Although It is obvious that certain body types can be found as an advantage I didnt think there was an actualy gene that would improve athletic ability. I suppose in the future it will eventually raise competition greatly if your opponent is someone who is genetically ideal for a certain sport.
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