Exploring genetic variants and Sodium Bicarbonate

Optimising performance in cyclists

This research, led by Dr Chris McManus, Dr Henry Chung, and Dr Sally Waterworth, aims to develop personalised supplementation strategies that optimise performance based on genetic profiles.

Sodium bicarbonate is widely used by athletes for its ability to buffer lactic acid during high-intensity exercise. However, the effectiveness of this supplement varies significantly across individuals, which may be due to specific genetic differences. By understanding these differences, we aim to create tailored supplementation plans that maximise athletic performance.

About the study

This study focuses on how genetic differences affect the pharmacokinetics (absorption and metabolism) and the ergogenic (performance-enhancing) effects of sodium bicarbonate. We will identify specific genetic markers, known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), to determine their influence on the time to peak bicarbonate levels and athletic performance outcomes.

Participants will undergo four laboratory visits, involving cycling performance tests, genetic profiling, and sodium bicarbonate supplementation. The findings from this study could lead to personalised supplementation strategies tailored to an athlete’s genetic makeup, helping enhance performance in endurance sports.

What you’ll get as a participant

By taking part in this research, participants will receive several valuable assessments and resources, including:

• Genetic Analysis: A saliva DNA test to identify genetic variants related to sodium and bicarbonate transport.
• Access to Personalised Genetic Data: Participants will receive their genetic results and analysis via a user-friendly app, giving them insights into their personalised health and performance.
• Performance Assessments: Including a 4 km cycling time trial and mitochondrial oxidative capacity tests to understand how your body responds to sodium bicarbonate.
• Blood pH and Bicarbonate Testing: To track how sodium bicarbonate impacts your body during exercise.
• VO2 Max Testing: A maximal effort test to assess your aerobic capacity and determine eligibility to continue in the study.

Who can join

We are recruiting male cyclists aged 18–40 who are regular cyclists (cycling at least 3 times per week or for more than 5 hours per week). Typically, cyclists who train at this level are more likely to meet the eligibility criteria.

Participants must be free from chronic diseases and medications that affect metabolism.

How it works

The study is designed as a randomised, double-blind, crossover trial. Participants will attend four laboratory visits:

• Visit 1: Health screening and VO2 max testing. Eligibility to participate in the rest of the study and undergo DNA analysis will be determined based on VO2 max results.
• Visit 2: Genetic testing and identification of time to peak blood bicarbonate.
• Visits 3 and 4: Supplementation (either sodium bicarbonate or placebo) and performance testing, including cycling time trials and mitochondrial capacity assessments.

Get involved

We are actively recruiting trained cyclists for this study. If you’re interested in participating or learning more, please contact principle investigator, Dr Chris McManus at cmcman@essex.ac.uk.