Gene technology will help identify athletic potential, fabricate new performance-enhancing drugs, and alter genes to speed muscle growth, strength, and endurance. Many genetic methods will be valuable to athletes. These techniques include:

1) Recombinant DNA technology: This involves fabricating hormones and chemicals in test tubes using genetically altered organisms. Good examples include growth hormone, insulin and blood booster EPO.

2) Drugs that influence genes: Some drugs or hormones can influence genes to produce enzymes or other proteins that improve performance. For example, anabolic steroids stimulate genes to produce more muscle protein so that muscles grow (hypertrophy).

3) Gene therapy: This involves transferring entire cells that have not been genetically modified into tissue via harmless viruses in the hope of improving the tissue’s function. Gene therapy can either promote or block physiological processes.

4) Germ-line gene transfer: This involves transferring genes to eggs or sperm in the hope of altering the genetic content of future generations. For example, a gene variant that promotes muscle hypertrophy and sprint speed might be transferred to an egg in the hope of developing a future Mr. Olympia or Olympic sprinter.

5) Gene identification: Scientists may one day identify children who have genes that give them a natural advantage for developing more strength, power, and endurance. Genetic manipulation is a reality and will alter sports, as we know it. (Pediatric Clinics North America, 54: 807–822, 2007)