ASSOCIATION OF VITAMIN D RECEPTOR (VDR) GENE POLYMORPHISMS WITH PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IN ELITE ATHLETES

This study investigates the significance of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms — rs2228570 (FokI, T>C) and rs1544410 (BsmI, G>A) — in determining athletic performance among 652 elite athletes representing different sport types. DNA samples were analyzed using Real-Time PCR with allele-specific fluorescent probes. The T allele of VDR rs2228570 was associated with enhanced aerobic metabolism and endurance, whereas the G allele of VDR rs1544410 was prevalent among athletes in speed- and strength-based sports, indicating its importance for high-intensity activities. The findings emphasize the practical value of VDR genotyping for personalized training design, prevention of overtraining, and the evidence-based selection of optimal sports disciplines.