Research Article
Mohammad Al-haggar1, Abdel-Rah
Abstract
Background and objectives: Monocarboxylate transporter1 (MCT1) is a protein that mediates transport of pyruvate and lactate across cell membranes, its gene contains several polymorphisms (SNPs). We aimed to genotype SNP A1470T and to study its impact on muscle activity. Materials and Methods: 108 male children and adolescents were enrolled; 56 patients (easily fatigable after 30 minutes football training) and 52 normal individuals who completed the training protocol without complaint. Both groups were subjected to clinical examination and blood lactate and LDH assay. DNA samples were withdrawn for MCT1genotyping using high resolution melt technique. Results: Overall frequency of TT genotype was highest (44.5%) followed by AT and wild AA genotypes. Genotype AA was significantly lower in patients (OR 1.97) with a statistically higher frequency of allele A among control (56 versus 28 with P<0.001). Significantly higher blood lactate was found in patients. Alleles A and T were in equilibrium among control (56 versus 48, respectively) with marked disequilibrium in patients. Interpretation and conclusions: Allele A was favorable for MCT1 function, lactate transport and hence physical fitness. Within patients' groups, AA was not better than AT or TT thus suggesting potential role of training or epigenetic factors in improving allele a expression.