Association between ACTN3, BDKRB2 and AGT polymorphisms and physical performance in Brazilian junior handball players

Team handball performance relies on physical and technical abilities, influenced by environmental and genetic factors. Variants in ACTN3, BDKRB2, and AGT genes are associated with athletic performance, but their relevance in handball remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association of these polymorphisms with physical performance in Brazilian junior handball players. The study included 91 junior male handball players (16.4 ± 0.7 years) and 74 age-matched non-athletes. Genotypes for ACTN3 (R577X), BDKRB2 (-9/+9), and AGT (M235T) were identified using PCR-based techniques. Physical tests assessed upper limb strength (medicine ball throw) and lower limb power (standing long jump).