Can Tom Brady’s Success be Linked to Genetics?

Tom Brady, ‘super human’? How genetics may contribute to his success

Just a few short weeks ago, Tom Brady led his team to another super bowl championship. His incredible performance is amplified by the fact that he is about 40 years old. While most players his age are long retired, Brady’s performance has some people thinking that he really is a superhuman! Scientists, however, are more convinced by research that shows rigorous training can awaken dormant genes and kick them into high gear. These genes are related to muscle and blood vessel structure. Although Brady is not actually a superhuman, his DNA is what enables him to be superior to other players his age.

            People like Tom Brady are incredibly interesting because they are hard to come by. To a common person, he seems like an “ageless wonder”. To scientists, on the other hand, he seems like good research subject. Genetic research that can shed light on maintaining a healthy and impressive “fitness age” could benefit many people that struggle to stay in shape. Even if you’re not a Patriots fan, it is hard to deny that Tom Brady is one of the greats!

Related link: How much does genetics really affect your fitness

 

The Genetics of Being Injury-Prone

Your genetics make up may play a role in whether or not you are more susceptible to injury on the playing field.  Stuart Kim, a professor of genetics at Stanford University, began his studies in genetics and athletes when athletes became interested in what kinds of injuries they were prone to.  These studies can be very helpful not only to professional athletes but to amateur athletes as well.  About two million adults go to the emergency room every year for sports-related injuries due to playing recreational sports.  It has been found that there are variations of genes that control the production of collagen (the main component of tendons and ligaments).  Collagen proteins also make up a large part of bones and bones.  In some people, lack of these proteins leave them more vulnerable to injury.  A specific collagen gene, COL1A1, has been found to be underrepresented in a group of recreational athletes who suffered traumatic ACL injuries in a study done in 2009 by South African researchers.  COL1A1, has been linked to other soft-tissue injuries like shoulder dislocations and Achilles-tendon ruptures.

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