SECTION IV - PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF SPORT AND EXERCISE / RESEARCH PAPER
Interaction Analysis of the ANKK1 Gene Taq1A rs1800497 Polymorphism and Personality Traits in a Cohort of Elite Athletes
1
Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Medical University in Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland.
2
Independent Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics and Epigenetics, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland.
3
Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, Poland
4
Department of Nursing, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, Zielona Góra, Poland.
5
Doctoral School, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland.
6
Clinical Department of Cardiology, Nowa Sól Multidisciplinary Hospital, Nowa Sol, Poland.
7
Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland.
8
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences in Tarnow, Tarnów, Poland.
Submission date: 2025-03-06
Final revision date: 2025-08-22
Acceptance date: 2026-03-10
Online publication date: 2026-07-10
Corresponding author
Anna Grzywacz
Independent Laboratory of Genetics and Behavioral Epigenetics,, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin,, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72 St.,, 70-111 Szczecin,, Szczecin, Poland
Independent Laboratory of Genetics and Behavioral Epigenetics,, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin,, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72 St.,, 70-111 Szczecin,, Szczecin, Poland
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
The ANKK1 TaqIA polymorphism (rs1800497) has been linked to substance dependence, possibly through reduced striatal D2 receptor density and altered dopamine signaling. Beyond addiction, dopaminergic pathways are also implicated in motivation, reward, and athletic behavior. Personality further contributes to performance, as traits influence athletes’ engagement and preparation. The aim of this study was to examine: (1) the association between ANKK1 TaqIA rs1800497 and elite athletic status; (2) differences in personality traits measured by the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) between athletes and controls; and (3) interactions between the genotype, athletic status, and personality. The study included 141 competitive athletes competing nationally or internationally and 182 controls (total N = 323). Genotype analysis revealed significant differences between groups (p = 0.0439), with the C allele more frequent in athletes and the T allele in controls (p = 0.0158). Athletes scored higher on conscientiousness (p = 0.0001). Interaction analyses showed significant effects of genotype × athletic status for neuroticism (p = 0.0065), extraversion (p = 0.0403), and agreeableness (p = 0.0191). These findings not only provide a compelling rationale for further investigation into the role of ANKK1 in modulating personality traits relevant to athletic performance, but also suggest potential practical applications in the field of sports science—for example, in talent identification, a personalized training program design, and psychological support strategies aimed at optimizing athletes’ performance and well-being.
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| ISSN: | 1640-5544 |
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