Genetic factors associated with performance and exercise-associated weight loss in Ironman triathletes

Includes bibliographical references.The aim of this thesis was to investigate candidate genes, mainly within the CNS, that may contribute to the variation in physiological responses (body weight changes) and athletic ability between athletes during participation in a 226 km Ironman triathlon. A genetic association approach was used in case-control studies to identify specific sequence variants within selected candidate genes. These candidate genes (IL-6, 5-HTT and MAO-A) were selected based on the biological function of their encoded proteins, which have been implicated in peripheral and central fatigue models. Candidate genes (5-HTT and AVPR2) that encode for proteins that play key roles in the neuro-endocrine control of total body water homeostasis were also investigated in this thesis