REVIEW
Genes and Injuries in Sports:
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
1
Department of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland.
2
Faculty of Physical Culture, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland.
3
Institute of Sports Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland.
4
Department of Laryngology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland.
Submission date: 2025-10-15
Final revision date: 2026-01-28
Acceptance date: 2026-03-06
Publication date: 2026-04-02
Corresponding author
Adam Maszczyk
Institute of Sports Sciences, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, -, -, Katowice, Poland
Institute of Sports Sciences, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, -, -, Katowice, Poland
Journal of Human Kinetics 2026;101:179-198
KEYWORDS
athletic performancesports-related injuriesprecision medicinegenetic polymorphismrehabilitation outcomes
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Sports injuries are a significant concern for both professional and recreational athletes, influencing performance, longevity, and rehabilitation outcomes. While external factors such as biomechanics and workload management have been extensively studied, emerging research highlights the role of genetic predispositions in injury susceptibility. This systematic review and meta-analysis consolidated findings from 24 studies examining the association between genetic polymorphisms and sports-related injuries, with a focus on musculoskeletal tissue integrity, muscle function, and inflammatory response. The analysis identified key genetic markers, including COL1A1, COL5A1, and ACTN3, associated with ligament and tendon injuries, as well as the impact of cytokine gene variants (IL-6, TNF-α) on recovery processes. The pooled odds ratio suggested a significantly increased risk of injury among individuals carrying specific genetic variants. Subgroup analyses further revealed gene-specific effects on the injury type and athlete classification. Despite these insights, gene-environment interactions and methodological variability remain challenges in fully elucidating genetic contributions to injury risk. The findings underscore the potential for personalized injury prevention strategies based on genetic screening, enhancing both sports performance and rehabilitation efficiency.
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