Lipid Genes and Hypoxia/Altitude Adaptation

Abstract

Adaptation to high-altitude hypoxia involves complex physiological, metabolic, and genetic mechanisms that enable humans to maintain energy balance under reduced oxygen availability. While traditional studies emphasize hematological and cardiopulmonary adjustments, emerging evidence highlights the critical role of lipid metabolism in supporting endurance and performance in hypoxic environments. Lipid-related genes, including CPT1A, PPARA, ANGPTL4, and members of the FABP family, regulate fatty-acid transport, mitochondrial β-oxidation, and substrate utilization, influencing metabolic flexibility and oxygen efficiency. Variations in these genes are associated with differences in endurance capacity, lactate accumulation, and lipid mobilization during altitude exposure. This paper reviews current literature and analyzes empirical data to elucidate the interactions between lipid-gene polymorphisms and hypoxia tolerance. Understanding these genetic influences offers potential applications in personalized training, nutrition, and therapeutic strategies for athletes, mountaineers, and individuals exposed to hypoxic environments, emphasizing the significance of lipid metabolism in altitude adaptation.

Key Words: Adaptation, Hypoxia, Altitude, Sports performance, gene etc.