Association Between ACE Genotype and Skeletal Muscle Strength and Volume, and Their Response to Strength Training in Older Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Previous studies have linked an insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene with variability in the response of muscle strength and mass to strength training, though conclusions have been inconsistent across investigations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible association between ACE genotype and skeletal muscle strength and volume, and their adaptation to strength training. Methods: A group of older, sedentary adults completed 10-weeks of strength training. Quadriceps muscle strength and volume were measured using one repetition maximum and computed tomography, respectively. Differences were compared among ACE genotype groups (II vs. ID+DD) by sex and race. Results: Baseline and post-training, skeletal muscle strength and volume were not significantly correlated with ACE genotype. ACE genotype was significantly associated with muscle hypertrophy in Caucasian males only (p=0.02). Conclusions: The ACE genotype was not associated with skeletal muscle strength, but was associated with muscle hypertrophy in Caucasian males.