ADRB2 Polymorphisms (rs1042713 and rs1042714) and Blood Pressure Response to the Cold Pressor Test in Combat Athletes and Non-Athletes

Abstract

Adrenergic receptors (AR) play a vital role in cardiovascular system regulation. The ADRB2 gene, encoding the β2-AR receptor, has genetic variability potentially impacting blood pressure (BP) regulation. Evidence for such associations has been inconsistent. This study investigates the relationship between two ADRB2 polymorphisms (rs1042713, Gly16Arg, and rs1042714, Glu27Gln) and BP changes during the cold pressor test (CPT) in young, healthy men, including combat athletes. The study included two groups: combat athletes and non-athlete students. BP (systolic, SBP; diastolic, DBP) was measured at rest and at pain tolerance during CPT. Genetic analysis was conducted for rs1042713 and rs1042714 polymorphisms. Athletes had higher SBP and DBP than students, with both values increasing during pain tolerance compared to rest. Differences in BP responses during CPT were genotype-dependent. Students with the Gly16Gly16 genotype had significantly higher SBP than Arg16 allele carriers, while this variation was not observed in athletes. Athletes with the Glu27 allele exhibited higher SBP than 27Gln homozygotes, unlike students. Gly16 and Glu27 alleles are linked to elevated stress-induced BP responses in young Polish men. However, BP regulation involves multiple genetic and environmental factors not explored in this study.