Investigation of Vitamin D Receptor Gene rs731236 Polymorphism in Turkish Rugby Players

Vitamin D is an important molecule responsible for the development, contraction and regeneration of muscles, and activates its biological functions by means of its receptors, the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is a member of the nuclear receptor group. In the present study, we aimed to analyze the rs731236 distribution in Turkish rugby players. A total of 22 male players and 30 sedentary individuals (as a control group) participated in the study. Following DNA isolation, rs731236 polymorphisms of VDR was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR). Statistical analysis was carried out by chi-square test. CC, CT and TT genotype and percentage distributions for rs731236 polymorphism in players were as 5 (23%), 10 (45%) and 7 (32%), respectively. Allelic distributions were found to be 20 (45%) for C allele, and 24 (55%) for T allele. For the control group; CC, CT and TT genotypes and percentages were as 4 (13%), 17 (57%) and 9 (30%), respectively. C allele was counted as 25 (42%) and 35 (58%) for controls. When we compare athletes and control groups in the terms of genotypes, we detected no statistically significant difference (p= 0.12). For the allele comparison, we detected no significant difference between groups (p= 0.76). Determination of gene combinations in athletes is of great importance for carrying out of the optimal training programs. Therefore, we aimed to determine the distribution of the alleles related with athletic performance on successful athletes. In our cohort, the CT genotype and T allele were more intensely determined in players.