Methylation of the DAT1 dopamine transporter gene in combat sport athletes: Associations with impulsivity and reward sensitivity

Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, modulate behavioral traits, including impulsivity and reward sensitivity. The dopamine transporter gene (DAT1) plays a key role in dopaminergic function and is associated with self-regulation, attention, and the trait of addiction. This study summarized the DAT1 methylation status in patients practicing combat sports and its as-sociation with impulsivity, ADHD symptoms, and consequence sensitivity. One hundred control subjects were recruited using the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS), the ADHD scale, and the Op-portunity Response Scale. DAT1 methylation was measured using the bisulfite ionization method. A correlation analysis was performed with the comparison group. Athletes showed significantly higher levels of methylated CpG sites on DAT1 (52.79% vs. 35.57%, p < 0.00001) and BIS scores (p < 0.05). Underlying DAT1 methylation correlates with sensitivity to comfort (p = 0.035). In the control group, DAT1 methylation positively correlated with BIS scores and ADHD traits (p < 0.05). Long-term physical activity may induce epigenetic modifications with proper self-regulation. Clear correlations determined for the secondary group that structured training modulates dopaminergic pathways and behavioral traits via DAT1 methylation.