2017 Volume 6 Issue 2 Pages 95-102
We investigated the associations between the DRD2/ANKK1 genotype (rs1800497, C > T) and both physical activity (PA) level and exercise habit. A total of 648 Japanese men and women aged 26 – 82 years were included in this cross-sectional study. The PA level was evaluated using a triaxial accelerometer. Exercise habits in the past year and in the period from childhood to adolescence were assessed using a questionnaire. There were no significant differences in PA level or exercise habit in the past year among the DRD2/ANKK1 genotypes. On the other hand, there was a significant association between the DRD2/ANKK1 genotype and exercise habit in the period from childhood to adolescence. Regular exercisers (Ex) showed a lower proportion of the CC genotype than non-exercisers (Non-Ex) (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis for exercise habit in the period from childhood to adolescence, controlling for gender and age in an additive genetic model, indicated significant associations with increased likelihood of exercisers (Ex) carrying the T allele, OR = 1.38 (95% CI: 1.06 – 1.80, P < 0.05). In conclusion, it was suggested that the DRD2/ANKK1 genotype is associated with exercise habit in the period from childhood to adolescence, but not current PA and exercise habit in the past year.