Key result
VEGFA and KDR variants are linked to higher aerobic capacity, endurance, and ACL rupture risk.
Why the study?
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in VEGFA and KDR genes potentially impact endurance and injury risk by affecting oxygen delivery, vascular adaptation, and tissue regeneration, but research on these effects remains limited.
Do VEGFA and KDR gene variants affect endurance performance and ACL injury susceptibility in athletes?
Systematic Review
Do VEGFA and KDR gene variants affect endurance performance and ACL injury susceptibility in athletes?
VEGFA and KDR polymorphisms may serve as potential genetic markers for modulating aerobic performance and assessing ACL injury risk in athletes.
May inform genetic profiling for endurance and ACL risk in athletes; leaves open validation in larger, diverse cohorts before adoption.[[1]](https://reference-global.com/download/article/10.2478/bhk-2026-0013.
Study aim Genetic predisposition influences athletic performance and susceptibility to sports injuries. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VEGFA and KDR ( VEGFR2 ) genes affect oxygen delivery, vascular adaptation, and tissue regeneration, potentially impacting endurance and injury risk. However, research on these effects remains limited. This systematic review examines the association of VEGFA and KDR SNPs with endurance performance and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury susceptibility in athletes. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases. Eligible studies were case-control designs involving athletes and examining VEGFA or KDR SNPs in relation to endurance performance or ACL injuries. Selection was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Seven studies met the criteria. Results The VEGFA rs2010963 polymorphism was linked to elite athlete status, with the C allele associated with higher VO 2 max and power output (Wmax). The KDR rs1870377 A allele was more frequent in endurance athletes. Regarding injuries, the rs2010963 CC genotype correlated with a higher risk of ACL rupture, while the VEGFA A–A–G haplotype (rs699947, rs1570360, rs2010963) showed a protective effect. A VEGFA rs35569394 polymorphism increased ACL injury risk in I allele carriers. Conclusion These findings suggest VEGFA and KDR polymorphisms may modulate aerobic performance and ACL injury risk. Further research is needed to validate these associations and improve genetic profiling in sports science.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Jabłońska-Paszko et al. (2026) conducted a systematic review in Endurance performance and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury susceptibility. VEGFA and KDR gene variants (SNPs) vs. Non-carriers / Control groups (physically inactive or no injury history) was evaluated on Association of VEGFA and KDR SNPs with endurance performance and ACL injury susceptibility. The VEGFA rs2010963 CC genotype is associated with an increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture and higher aerobic capacity, while the KDR rs1870377 A allele is linked to endurance athlete status.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: