Caffeine, Your Genes, and What It All Means: Effect of Caffeine Metabolism Genotype on Caffeine Consumption Habits

Caffeine is frequently consumed by athletes to enhance performance. Variation in individual response to caffeine may arise from different rates at which our bodies metabolize this substance. Fast (A allele homozygotes) and... [ view full abstract ]

Caffeine is frequently consumed by athletes to enhance performance. Variation in individual response to caffeine may arise from different rates at which our bodies metabolize this substance. Fast (A allele homozygotes) and slow (C allele carriers) caffeine metabolizers are distinguishable at intron 1, position 734 of gene CYP1A2. This research was conducted to further understand potential relationships between caffeine metabolism enzyme genotype, daily caffeine consumption habits, and individual perception of caffeine’s effect. DNA samples were collected via cheek swab from members of the Middlebury College cross country team (n=35). Sample providers completed a caffeine consumption habit survey and logged their caffeine intake for one week. From each sample, DNA was isolated, amplified using the polymerase chain reaction, digested using the restriction enzyme ApaI, and resolved by agarose gel electrophoresis to determine genotype. Comparisons were made between individual genotype, caffeine consumption habits, and perceived effects. Preliminary data show no significant differences between genotype and caffeine consumption habits.