SportNL DNA databank

SportNL to the top

The SportNL DNA database (SDD-NL) is an initiative of Dutch top sport and part of the project "Research Center for DNA and Sport" (CDAS). Project CDAS is again part of Prof. Maurice Zeegers' research group at Maastricht University.

Sport Genetics recognizes the reality that not every athlete is born with the same genetic predisposition and seeks to create the “evidence base” for this. We investigate its application in real world (elite) sport settings.

Evidence-based knowledge about the relationship between specific sports characteristics and genetic predisposition provides new data to make better informed choices in selection, nutrition, training, injury treatment, recovery and competition strategy. Evidence-based knowledge about its application can help to decide whether, and in which contexts, Sport Genetic DNA test may be useful.  

By collecting and linking DNA data and sports phenotypes, a database is available on which scientific research can be conducted into the relationship between DNA and Sports. 

Luc Steins

Data set

The SportNL DNA database (SDD-NL) is stored anonymously and securely at Sport Data Valley. The dataset contains whole genome DNA SNP data (1 million genetic markers) for each athlete that can be anonymously linked to many different sports characteristics consisting of biological parameters, wearable data, psychological parameters and competition results.

The participating athletes own their own data and may decide to share their data for scientific research. Upon consent, scientific researchers can access the database to discover new DNA sports characteristics based on WGA association research or Mendelian randomization. Mendelian randomization is based on the idea that traits and environmental factors are equally distributed among carriers and non-carriers of different genetic variants. 

DNA

Recent Publications (with authors from the meta-research team)