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Parpa K, Manning JT, Kobus M, Mason L, Michaelides M. The associations between digit ratio (2D:4D and right - left 2D:4D), maximal oxygen consumption and ventilatory thresholds in professional male football players. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e24047. [PMID: 38308173 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digit ratio (2D:4D: the relative length of the 2nd and 4th digit) is thought to be a negative correlate of prenatal testosterone. The 2D:4D is related to oxygen metabolism, but the precise nature of this relationship is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to consider associations between digit ratios (right 2D:4D, left 2D:4D, right-left 2D:4D [Dr-l]) and VO2max and ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2). METHODS One hundred and thirty-three Caucasian (n = 133) professional football players competing in Cyprus participated in the study. Players underwent anthropometric measurements, and digit lengths were measured from hand scans. They also completed an incremental cardiopulmonary test to exhaustion on a treadmill. RESULTS There were negative correlations between digit ratios and VO2max (right 2D:4D, r = -.65; left 2D:4D r = -.37, both p < .0001; Dr-l r = -.30, p = .0005). There were no relationships between digit ratios and VT1. For VT2, there were negative relationships with digit ratios (right 2D:4D, r = -.43, p < .0001; left 2D:4D, r = -.21 and Dr-l, r = -.21, both p = .02). Digit ratios are negatively related to VO2max with large (right 2D:4D) and medium (left 2D:4D, Dr-l) effect sizes. For VT2, there were also negative correlations, which were medium (right 2D:4D) and small (left 2D:4D, Dr-l). CONCLUSION Our findings may help clarify the relationships between digit ratios and high-intensity actions for extended periods, which are dependent on efficient oxygen metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koulla Parpa
- School of Sciences, University of Central Lancashire - Cyprus Campus, Larnaka, Cyprus
| | - John T Manning
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise, and Medicine (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Magdalena Kobus
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Poland
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Laura Mason
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise, and Medicine (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Marcos Michaelides
- School of Sciences, University of Central Lancashire - Cyprus Campus, Larnaka, Cyprus
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Kozieł S, Konarski JM, Konarska A, Huechert J, Ignasiak Z, Chakraborty R. The change in handgrip strength, after physical exercise, is moderated by digit ratio (2D:4D): A study among the young adults in Poland. Am J Hum Biol 2024:e24078. [PMID: 38576074 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The digit ratio (2D:4D), the ratio of the lengths of second (2D) to the fourth (4D) fingers, is a proxy indicator of prenatal androgen exposure. On average, males display lower 2D:4D than females. Previous studies have shown that lower 2D:4D ratios were associated with better sports and physical abilities. AIM To assess whether a challenge condition, imposed by intense exercise, could increase handgrip strength (HGS) associated with 2D:4D. METHODS This cross-sectional experimental study included 90 healthy young Polish adults (40 males, 50 females). They underwent intense physical exercise, before (7 days) and after which they were measured for HGS and 2D:4D. Height and weight were also measured. Analyses of Covariance were employed to delineate associations. RESULTS 2D:4D had significant predictive effects on the differences in HGS (DHGS) measured in two occasions, without and after, physical exercises. The lower was the 2D:4D, the higher the DHGS, particularly, for the left hand. CONCLUSION The results reconfirmed that the link between prenatal testosterone exposure (indicated by 2D:4D) and physical strength depends on the context, such as a challenged condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sławomir Kozieł
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jan M Konarski
- Department of Theory of Sports, Poznań University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Konarska
- Department of Physiotherapy, Stanisław Staszic University of Applied Science, Piła, Poland
| | - Joanna Huechert
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Ignasiak
- Faculty of Physical Education, University School of Physical Education in Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Raja Chakraborty
- Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia, West Bengal, India
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Ribeiro E, Neave N, Marsili BK, Figueiredo ECG, Martino-Andrade AJ, de Moraes RN. Prenatal androgenization (2D:4D) predictions of tennis match-play success in junior players: A search for physiological explanations. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e23979. [PMID: 37602536 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to investigate the possible association between digit ratio (2D:4D) and match-play success (MPS) in junior tennis players. In addition, we consider the possible explanatory pathways of these associations in relation to psychological, strength, power, and hormonal parameters. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study, with a sample comprised of 64 male junior tennis players (11-18 years old). Digit ratio was calculated from direct finger measurements. In addition, we measured the ratio of wins by number of matches played in 5 years of official competition (MPS), handgrip strength (HGS), standing long jump (SLJ), training (in weekly hours), and expertise (number of years in official competition). Salivary testosterone and cortisol levels were measured before and after physical "challenge" tests. RESULTS The 2D:4D correlated negatively with HGS and SLJ. MPS was also negatively associated with 2D:4D, but was positively correlated to HGS, expertise, training, and self-confidence (SC). Multiple linear regression showed 2D:4D and expertise were associated with MPS (43%-54%). None of the physical, or hormonal variables tested explained the links between 2D:4D and MPS. CONCLUSION Therefore, the specific fitness components influenced by prenatal androgenization that moderate sports success remain unknown. Future studies should explore the interaction of 2D:4D, with tennis exercises as a challenge to induce hormonal change, the effect of pubertal stage, and the influence of aerobic endurance in determining MPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evaldo Ribeiro
- Litoral Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Matinhos, Brazil
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Nick Neave
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Abe T, Abe A, Loenneke JP. Association of changes in grip strength with second digit length adjusted for fourth digit length in young children. Am J Hum Biol 2023; 35:e23901. [PMID: 36998165 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The factors involved in changes in grip strength (GS) during growth/development are not well known. Findings from cross-sectional studies have indicated that digit lengths are associated with physical fitness, including GS. This study aimed to investigate the association of changes in GS over 1 year and the second (2D) and fourth (4D) digit lengths in young children using the 4D as a covariate. METHODS One hundred and three young children (54 boys and 49 girls) performed maximum voluntary GS and ultrasound-measured forearm muscle thickness measurements in the right hand. All participants completed the first measurement and underwent a second measurement 1 year after the first one. The 2D and 4D were taken on the palmar surface of the outstretched right hand at the second measurement. RESULTS The 2D was inversely associated with the change in GS (B = -2.1, p = 0.023) adjusted for all covariates. Girls had numerically lower adjusted changes in grip strength, although this was not statistically significant [-0.61 (-1.2, 0.02) kg]. When sex was removed from the model, the 2D remained inversely associated with the change in GS (B = -2.39, p = 0.011). Finally, when only adjusting for the 4D, the 2D was inversely associated with the change in GS (B = -3.07, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION This study documented the association between changes in GS over 1 year and digit lengths in young children. The difference in children's digit length needs to be recognized as a factor involved in weak GS in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Abe
- Institute of Health and Sports Science & Medicine, Juntendo University, Inzai-shi, Chiba, 270-1695, Japan
- Division of Children's Health and Exercise Research, Institute of Trainology, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan
| | - Akemi Abe
- Division of Children's Health and Exercise Research, Institute of Trainology, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan
| | - Jeremy P Loenneke
- Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, Kevser Ermin Applied Physiology Laboratory, The University of Mississippi, Mississippi, 38677, USA
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Gender Differences and Relationship of 2D:4D-Ratio, Mental Toughness and Dark Triad Traits among Active Young Adults. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060864. [PMID: 35741385 PMCID: PMC9220407 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary There is evidence that the exposure to more testosterone and less estrogen hormones before birth, that is, in utero, has a physiological impact on the relation between the index finger (2D) and the ring finger (4D). This relation is called the 2D:4D-ratio. A lower 2D:4D-ratio mirrors a longer ring finger (4D), relative to the index finger (2D); a higher 2D:4D-ratio mirrors a shorter ring finger (4D), relative to the index finger (2D). A higher exposure to testosterone and a lower exposure to estrogen hormones are associated with a lower 2D:4D-ratio. Further, a higher exposure to androgen hormones is associated with higher masculine traits. In the present study, we assessed 460 physically active young male and female adults. We showed that (1) males had lower 2D:4D ratios than females. Next, (2) active females and males had similar personality and mental toughness traits. (3) Females with more “dark” personality traits had a higher ability to perform consistently under stress and pressure; such females were mentally tougher. (4) Males with lower 2D:4D-ratios were mentally tougher. Overall, there is evidence that prenatal exposure to androgen hormones and personality traits in adulthood appear to be related, though, in a different fashion between male and female adults. Abstract There is consistent evidence that prenatal exposures to higher testosterone and lower estrogen concentrations during the first trimester of embryonal and fetal development are associated with a lower 2D:4D-ratio, which is to say: The index finger (2D) is shorter, compared to the ring finger (4D). Compared to non-active, athletes show lower 2D:4D ratios. However, athletes also report specific personality traits such as mental toughness, assertiveness, and competitive behavior. Here, we tested if 2D:4D-ratios were related to specific personality traits. We further investigated possible gender differences. A total of 460 active young adults (mean age: 24.81 years; 67% females) completed a series of self-rating questionnaires covering sociodemographic information and traits of the dark triad and mental toughness. Participants also provided a scan of their right palm hand to measure and calculate 2D:4D-ratios. t-tests, Pearson’s correlations, and multiple regression analysis were performed to analyze data. Compared to male participants, female participants had a higher 2D:4D-ratio. Female and male participants did not differ as regards dark triad traits and mental toughness traits. Irrespective of gender, and based on correlational computations, 2D:4D-ratios were unrelated to the dark triad (DT) and mental toughness (MT) scores. Higher DT scores were modestly associated with higher MT scores among females, but not among males. Lower 2D:4D-ratios were associated with higher constancy scores and the male gender. The constancy and male gender appeared to be associated with lower 2D:4D-ratios.
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Farhani F, Arazi H, Mirzaei M, Nobari H, Mainer-Pardos E, Chamari IM, Baker JS, Pérez-Gómez J, Chamari K. Associations between bio-motor ability, endocrine markers and hand-specific anthropometrics in elite female futsal players: a pilot study. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2022; 14:59. [PMID: 35382878 PMCID: PMC8981606 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00453-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) has been calculated for individual athletes and sports, but it has not been investigated in futsal performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate any relationships between 2D:4D of the dominant and non-dominant hands and physical capacity performances, selected functional variables and hormone concentrations in elite female futsal players. METHODS Twenty-four elite female futsal players were measured for 2D:4D in the dominant (2D:4DD) and non-dominant (2D:4DND) hand. The futsal specific performance test (FSPT), hand-grip strength (HGS) and aerobic power were also assessed. In addition, selected circulatory hormones were measured (estradiol, cortisol, growth hormone and insulin like growth factor-1). Pearson's correlation test was used to identify correlational relationships. RESULTS Total test-time and performance time (total time + penalty time) for the FSPT showed a significant correlation with 2D:4DD (r = 0.53, p = 0.005 and r = 0.55, p = 0.003, respectively). HGSND also displayed a significant correlation with the 2D:4DD (r = 0.59, p = 0.002). Aerobic power and time spent running on the treadmill also showed a significant relationship with 2D:4DND (both, r = 0.54, p = 0.006). Cortisol showed a significant correlation with 2D:4DD (- 0.58, p = 0.003) and 2D:4DND(- 0.52, p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS The measurement of 2D:4D ratio could be an important factor in determining potential performance attributes and talent identification of elite female futsal players. Further studies are needed in this area to further examine the results presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Farhani
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Arazi
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, 10th km of Tehran Road- Khalij-e-Fars highway, 4199843653, Rasht, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Mirzaei
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, 10th km of Tehran Road- Khalij-e-Fars highway, 4199843653, Rasht, Iran
| | - Hadi Nobari
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Granada, 18010, Granada, Spain.,Sports Scientist, Sepahan Football Club, 81887-78473, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Elena Mainer-Pardos
- Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad San Jorge, Autov A23 km 299, 50830, Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Imen Moussa Chamari
- Physical Education Department, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Julien S Baker
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Jorge Pérez-Gómez
- HEME Research Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Karim Chamari
- Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Doha, Qatar
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Chen T, Xiang J, Teng S, Huang Z, Li X, Huang L, Chen H, Luo B. Relationship between digit ratio of 2D:4D and The physical health among college students of han ethnicity in Southern Fujian. J ANAT SOC INDIA 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/jasi.jasi_189_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Bäck N, Schaefer K, Windhager S. Handgrip strength and 2D : 4D in women: homogeneous samples challenge the (apparent) gender paradox. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20212328. [PMID: 34875193 PMCID: PMC8651413 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.2328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The length ratio between the second and the fourth digit (2D : 4D) is a retrospective, non-invasive biomarker for prenatal androgen exposure. It was found to be negatively correlated with handgrip strength (HGS) in men, but the evidence for women is mixed. Such studies in women call for increased detection sensitivity. The present study was designed to reduce potential confounding factors, especially age and ethnicity variation. We measured the digit ratios and HGS of 125 healthy women between 19 and 31 years of age from a remote region in Austria. 2D : 4D of both hands was significantly and negatively correlated with HGS (n = 125, right hand: r = -0.255, p = 0.002, left hand: r = -0.206, p = 0.011). Size, direction and significance of correlation coefficients remained stable when statistically controlling for age, body weight, body height, body mass index or hours of exercise per week. This yields theory-consistent evidence that HGS and 2D : 4D are clearly associated in women-when sufficiently reducing genetic variation (confounding 2D : 4D), the ontogenetic environment and age ranges (confounding HGS) in the study population. This finding implies similar organizing effects of prenatal androgens as in men, pointing to a more parsimonious developmental mechanism and a new look into its proximate and ultimate causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Bäck
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Schaefer
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Human Evolution and Archaeological Sciences (HEAS), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonja Windhager
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Nobari H, Alves AR, Clemente FM, Pérez-Gómez J. Influence of 2D:4D ratio on fitness parameters and accumulated training load in elite youth soccer players. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2021; 13:125. [PMID: 34635156 PMCID: PMC8504125 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-021-00354-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digit ratio (2D:4D) characterized by the length of the second digit (2D) divided by the length of the fourth digit (4D), is a powerful marker of athletic performance. Some studies showed a negative correlation between 2D:4D ratio and sports performances. OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present study was three-fold: (1) to analyze the influence of anthropometric and 2D:4D ratio on variations of accumulated training load (ATL) and fitness parameters: maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric muscular strength of the knee extensor for hamstring (ISH) and flexor for quadriceps (ISQ) muscles; along three stages of evaluation of soccer players based on playing positions; (2) to analyze the correlations between 2D:4D ratio and aforementioned parameters; and (3) to investigate if variance in fitness levels and ATL can explain the 2D:4D ratio. METHODS Twenty-four elite players under 17 years were daily monitored for their rating perceived exertion and ATL across 24 weeks over the season. Soccer players have also measured in three stages for anthropometric traits and fitness parameters. RESULTS Significant differences were observed between playing positions for body mass, goalkeepers had higher body mass compared to centre-midfielder and winger players. Moreover, there were significant differences in ATL between early-season to mid-season in goalkeepers (P = 0.032). The 2D:4D ratio (left and right) shown largely and negatively association with muscular strength (ISQ: r = - 0.80; r = - 0.78, P ≤ 0.001, ISH: r = - 0.63; r = - 0.62, P = 0.001, respectively) and VO2max changes (r = - 0.55, P = 0.005; r = - 0.50, P = 0.013, respectively); lastly, both 2D:4D ratio significantly predicted changes in muscular strength and VO2max in young soccer players. CONCLUSIONS Goalkeepers tended to have higher body mass compared to centre-midfielder and winger players; and 2D:4D ratio revealed a mighty predictor of physical fitness changes in soccer players. Evidence should be helpful to professionals to highlight the usefulness of the 2D:4D into the identification of talent, but also to optimize young players' performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Nobari
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, 56199-11367, Ardabil, Iran. .,Sports Scientist, Sepahan Football Club, 81887-78473, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Ana Ruivo Alves
- Department of Arts, Humanities and Sport, Polytechnic Institute of Beja, 7800-295, Beja, Portugal.,Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, 5001-801, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Filipe Manuel Clemente
- Escola Superior Desporto e Lazer, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua Escola Industrial Comercial de Nun'Álvares, 4900-347, Viana do Castelo, Portugal.,Instituto de Telecomunicações, Delegação da Covilhã, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jorge Pérez-Gómez
- HEME Research Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
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Disterhaupt JW, Fitzgerald JS, Rhoades JL, Tomkinson GR. The relationship between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and vertical jump performance in young athletes. Am J Hum Biol 2021; 34:e23679. [PMID: 34499783 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digit ratio (2D:4D), a putative marker of prenatal testosterone, is a negative correlate of sports, athletic, and fitness performance. OBJECTIVES To describe the relationship between 2D:4D and vertical jump performance in athletes. METHODS Sixty-one Division I American Football players from a Midwestern U.S. university had their 2D:4D measured digitally and their vertical jump performance measured using jump mechanography. The primary outcome was jump height, with secondary outcomes depicting jump execution also recorded. Linear relationships between 2D:4D and vertical jump performance were quantified using partial correlations adjusted for age, height, mass, and ethnicity. RESULTS 2D:4D was a statistically significant weak negative correlate of jump height (partial r [95% confidence interval]: -0.26 [-0.48, -0.01]), indicating that athletes with lower 2D:4Ds (i.e., relatively longer 4th digits) jumped higher. Relationships with jump execution variables were negligible to weak and negative, but not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS The significant relationship between 2D:4D and jump height probably reflects both the long-term organizational and short-term activational benefits of testosterone. Therefore, 2D:4D may be a useful indicator of explosive strength among young athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob W Disterhaupt
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - John S Fitzgerald
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Jesse L Rhoades
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA.,Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Pasanen BE, Tomkinson JM, Dufner TJ, Park CW, Fitzgerald JS, Tomkinson GR. The relationship between digit ratio (2D:4D) and muscular fitness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Hum Biol 2021; 34:e23657. [PMID: 34331730 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digit ratio (2D:4D), a marker of prenatal testosterone exposure, is a weak negative correlate of sports/athletic/fitness performance. While numerous studies have examined the relationship between 2D:4D and physical fitness, there has never been a comprehensive study that has synthesized studies examining relationships between 2D:4D and muscular fitness. OBJECTIVES To systematically review and meta-analyze the relationship between 2D:4D and muscular fitness measured as handgrip strength (HGS). METHODS We systematically searched five electronic databases, reference lists, topical systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and personal libraries in November 2020. Peer-reviewed, cross-sectional studies that reported Pearson's correlation coefficients between objectively measured 2D:4D and HGS were included. We used random-effects meta-analysis to estimate the pooled correlation and the 95% confidence interval (95%CI), and moderator analyses to estimate the influence of sex and age. RESULTS Data from 22 studies, representing 5271 individuals from 11 countries ranging in (mean) age from 10.4 to 58.0 years, were included. Overall, there was a weak negative correlation between 2D:4D and HGS (r = -0.15, 95%CI = -0.20 to -0.09), indicating that individuals with low 2D:4Ds had high HGS. We found substantial heterogeneity between studies (Q = 123.4, p < .0001; I2 = 74%), but neither sex (Q = 0.003, p = .96) nor age (Q = 0.46, p = .50) significantly moderated the pooled correlation. CONCLUSIONS We found a weak negative relationship between 2D:4D and HGS, which showed substantial heterogeneity between studies, but was neither moderated by sex nor age. Our finding probably reflects both the long-term (organizational) and short-term (activational) benefits of testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke E Pasanen
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Jordan M Tomkinson
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Trevor J Dufner
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Chan Woong Park
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - John S Fitzgerald
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA.,Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Di Corrado D, Buscemi A, Magnano P, Maldonato NM, Tusak M, Coco M. Mood States and Performance in Elite Canoe Polo Players: The Mediating Role of Stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4494. [PMID: 33922639 PMCID: PMC8122864 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sport performance is characterized by competitive stressful conditions that elicit emotional states. The purpose of the study was to examine whether stress mediated the relationship between mood states and performance. Thirty-two elite canoe polo players from four different Italian teams (16 senior males and 16 senior females), aged between 29 and 38 years old (M = 32.3, SD = 2.71), participated in the study. Measures included level of psychological stress, six mood dimensions, and performance outcome. We also detected the digit ratio-the lower second-to-fourth digit length (2D:4D) ratio-as it was demonstrated to be correlated to high sports performance. The assessment took place one day before the first game of the national competition "ITALY CUP". Male athletes reported lower scores on dysfunctional emotion-related states and on 2D:4D ratio than female athletes. The results of the mediation analysis showed that psychological stress plays a mediating role between moods and performance. Overall, given the limited literature, the findings supported an integrative approach to the study of the linkage between emotion and action in canoe polo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Di Corrado
- Department of Sport Sciences, Kore University, Cittadella Universitaria, 94100 Enna, Italy
| | - Andrea Buscemi
- Study Center of Italian Osteopathy and Horus Social Cooperative, 95100 Catania, Italy;
| | - Paola Magnano
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University, 94100 Enna, Italy;
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Department of Neuroscience and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Matej Tusak
- Department of Social and Humanistic Sciences in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Marinella Coco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
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Eklund E, Ekström L, Thörngren JO, Ericsson M, Berglund B, Hirschberg AL. Digit Ratio (2D:4D) and Physical Performance in Female Olympic Athletes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:292. [PMID: 32528408 PMCID: PMC7247813 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D ratio) is suggested to be a negative correlate of prenatal testosterone. Little is known about the role of the 2D:4D ratio in relation to serum and urinary androgens for physical performance in female athletes. We aimed to compare the 2D:4D ratio in female Olympic athletes with sedentary controls, and to investigate the 2D:4D ratio in relation to serum and urinary androgens and physical performance in the athletes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 104 Swedish female Olympic athletes participating in power, endurance and technical sports and 117 sedentary controls. The 2D:4D ratio was calculated using direct digit measurements. Serum androgens and urinary androgen metabolites were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The athletes performed standardized physical performance tests and body composition was established by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: The 2D:4D ratio was significantly lower in the athletes compared with controls although serum testosterone levels were comparable between groups and within normal reference values. The 2D:4D ratio correlated negatively with urinary levels of testosterone glucuronide and 5α- and 5βAdiol-17G, whereas there were no correlations to serum androgen levels. Furthermore, the 2D:4D ratio correlated negatively with strength tests and positively with 3,000-meter running in the athletes. Conclusion: Female Olympic athletes had a lower 2D:4D ratio, possibly reflecting a higher prenatal androgen exposure, than sedentary controls. Furthermore, the 2D:4D ratio was related to urinary levels of androgen metabolites and physical performance in the athletes but not to serum androgen levels. It is suggested that the 2D:4D ratio could reflect androgen metabolism and may be of importance for sporting success in female athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Eklund
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Ekström
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - John-Olof Thörngren
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ericsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Berglund
- Department of Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Klapprodt KL, Fitzgerald JS, Short SE, Manning JT, Tomkinson GR. Relationships between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and game-related statistics in professional and semi-professional male basketball players. Am J Hum Biol 2018; 30:e23182. [PMID: 30251289 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this study was to examine relationships between digit ratio (2D:4D) and game-related statistics in professional and semi-professional male basketball players. The secondary aim was to quantify differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, 93 male basketball players from the professional Australian National Basketball League and the semi-professional South Australian Premier League were measured in-season for height, mass, and 2D:4D, with game-related statistics collected end-season. Linear relationships between right and left 2D:4Ds and game-related statistics were quantified using nonparametric partial correlations, and differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players were quantified using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). All partial correlations and ANCOVAs were adjusted for playing experience, body size, and competitive standard. RESULTS 2D:4D was a weak to moderate negative correlate of points scored and assists-to-turnovers ratio, indicating that males with lower 2D:4Ds were generally better offensively as they recorded more points and assists relative to turnovers. The difference in mean 2D:4D between starting and reserve players was negligible. CONCLUSIONS 2D:4D was favorably correlated with open-skill sports performance, as evidenced by the better offensive statistics of male basketball players with lower 2D:4Ds. These results probably reflect the organizational benefits of prenatal testosterone and indicate that 2D:4D may be a useful complement to traditional physical, physiological, skill, and behavioral predictors of basketball success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn L Klapprodt
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - John S Fitzgerald
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - Sandra E Short
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - John T Manning
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise, and Medicine (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Department of Education, Health and Behavior Studies, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota.,Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences and Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Lombardo MP, Otieno S, Heiss A. College-aged women in the United States that play overhand throwing sports have masculine digit ratios. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203685. [PMID: 30212523 PMCID: PMC6136748 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Athletic prowess in both males and females is negatively correlated with the ratio between the lengths of the second and fourth fingers (2D:4D), a correlate of prenatal testosterone exposure. Because multiple lines of evidence suggest that prenatal testosterone exposure is associated with sports interest, motivation, and athletic performance we measured the digit ratios of 77 non-athletes, 103 varsity athletes, and 78 club sport athletes to test 8 hypotheses about the relationship between digit ratio and the athletic behavior of college-age women in the USA. Using independent samples t-tests, we found no significant differences between the digit ratios of women that (1) were athletes and non-athletes, (2) were varsity or club sport athletes, (3) had played or were currently playing individual or team sports, (4) played contact and non-contact sports, (5) played sports involving a ball and those that do not, (6) played sports where the outcome was determined by a score or the outcome of direct physical competition or subjectively by judges, or (7) were starters or reserves on their teams. However, women that played overhand throwing sports softball and water polo had significantly smaller digit ratios than did women that played other sports. These differences were not due to scaling effects. The independent samples t-test results were supported by subsequent Monte Carlo bootstrap, Bayesian, Random Forest, and multiple linear regression analyses. We suggest that the organizational consequences of prenatal testosterone exposure may influence the anatomy and physiology of women that leads to success playing overhand throwing sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Lombardo
- Biology Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Sango Otieno
- Statistics Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Adam Heiss
- Statistics Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
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16
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Warrington NM, Shevroja E, Hemani G, Hysi PG, Jiang Y, Auton A, Boer CG, Mangino M, Wang CA, Kemp JP, McMahon G, Medina-Gomez C, Hickey M, Trajanoska K, Wolke D, Ikram MA, Montgomery GW, Felix JF, Wright MJ, Mackey DA, Jaddoe VW, Martin NG, Tung JY, Davey Smith G, Pennell CE, Spector TD, van Meurs J, Rivadeneira F, Medland SE, Evans DM. Genome-wide association study identifies nine novel loci for 2D:4D finger ratio, a putative retrospective biomarker of testosterone exposure in utero. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 27:2025-2038. [PMID: 29659830 PMCID: PMC5961159 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The ratio of the length of the index finger to that of the ring finger (2D:4D) is sexually dimorphic and is commonly used as a non-invasive biomarker of prenatal androgen exposure. Most association studies of 2D:4D ratio with a diverse range of sex-specific traits have typically involved small sample sizes and have been difficult to replicate, raising questions around the utility and precise meaning of the measure. In the largest genome-wide association meta-analysis of 2D:4D ratio to date (N = 15 661, with replication N = 75 821), we identified 11 loci (9 novel) explaining 3.8% of the variance in mean 2D:4D ratio. We also found weak evidence for association (β = 0.06; P = 0.02) between 2D:4D ratio and sensitivity to testosterone [length of the CAG microsatellite repeat in the androgen receptor (AR) gene] in females only. Furthermore, genetic variants associated with (adult) testosterone levels and/or sex hormone-binding globulin were not associated with 2D:4D ratio in our sample. Although we were unable to find strong evidence from our genetic study to support the hypothesis that 2D:4D ratio is a direct biomarker of prenatal exposure to androgens in healthy individuals, our findings do not explicitly exclude this possibility, and pathways involving testosterone may become apparent as the size of the discovery sample increases further. Our findings provide new insight into the underlying biology shaping 2D:4D variation in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Warrington
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Enisa Shevroja
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gibran Hemani
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Pirro G Hysi
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | | | - Adam Auton
- 23andMe, Inc., Mountain View, CA 94061, USA
| | - Cindy G Boer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Massimo Mangino
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Carol A Wang
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - John P Kemp
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - George McMahon
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Carolina Medina-Gomez
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martha Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and the Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Katerina Trajanoska
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dieter Wolke
- Department of Psychology and Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV47AL, UK
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Grant W Montgomery
- Queensland Brain Institute and Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Janine F Felix
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Margaret J Wright
- Queensland Brain Institute and Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - David A Mackey
- Lions Eye Institute, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Vincent W Jaddoe
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas G Martin
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | | | - George Davey Smith
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Craig E Pennell
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Tim D Spector
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Joyce van Meurs
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Fernando Rivadeneira
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, South Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sarah E Medland
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - David M Evans
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
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Eichler A, Heinrich H, Moll GH, Beckmann MW, Goecke TW, Fasching PA, Muschler MR, Bouna-Pyrrou P, Lenz B, Kornhuber J. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and behavioral symptoms in primary-school aged boys. Early Hum Dev 2018; 119:1-7. [PMID: 29486372 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The second-to-forth digit length ratio (2D:4D) is considered to be a biomarker for intrauterine androgen levels. It is associated with adult and child mental health problems, primarily with behavioral symptoms and predominantly in males. Using a cross-sectional design, we examined whether 2D:4D was associated with conduct disorder (CD) symptoms in 138 primary-school aged children (54% boys, Mage = 7.70 years) and considered child sex as a moderating factor. Children's digit lengths were measured from hand scans and mothers rated the behavioral/emotional symptoms of their child. The regression analyses revealed that 2D:4D ratios were associated with behavioral symptoms in boys (β = -0.260, p = 0.026), but not in girls (β = -0.040, p = 0.762). Child emotional symptoms, analyzed as a control, were not significantly correlated with 2D:4D. In conclusion, prenatal brain hyperandrogenization - operationalized by the 2D:4D biomarker - could result in behavioral symptoms in boys at early school age, reflecting one predictor for early onset CD. Our data support the use of 2D:4D as a marker of prenatal androgen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Eichler
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6+10, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Hartmut Heinrich
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6+10, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; kbo-Heckscher-Klinikum, Deisenhofener Str. 28, 81539 München, Germany
| | - Gunther H Moll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6+10, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 21-23, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tamme W Goecke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 21-23, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; Department of Perinatal Medicine and Obstetrics, RoMed Hospital Rosenheim, Pettenkoferstraße 10, 83022 Rosenheim, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 21-23, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marcel-René Muschler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Polyxeni Bouna-Pyrrou
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Bernd Lenz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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18
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Dyer M, Short SE, Short M, Manning JT, Tomkinson GR. Relationships between the second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) and game-related statistics in semi-professional female basketball players. Am J Hum Biol 2017; 30. [PMID: 29024156 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a negative correlate of sports performance, although this relationship may be weak in open-skill sports such as basketball. The primary aim was to quantify relationships between 2D:4D and game-related statistics in semi-professional female basketball players. The secondary aim was to quantify the differences in mean 2D:4Ds between players based on their position in the starting lineup. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, 64 female basketball players who competed in the South Australian Premier League were measured in-season for height, mass, and 2D:4D, with game-related statistics collected end-season. Partial correlations (adjusted for age and body mass index) were used to quantify relationships between right and left 2D:4Ds and game-related statistics. Unpaired t-tests were used to quantify differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players. RESULTS 2D:4D was a substantial negative correlate of blocks, rebounds, and field-goal percentage; meaning, females with lower 2D:4Ds were generally better defensively as they recorded more blocks and rebounds, and were more efficient scorers, irrespective of their age and body size. Mean 2D:4D differed by position in the starting lineup, as females with lower 2D:4Ds were more likely to be in the starting lineup. CONCLUSIONS This study found evidence that 2D:4D was a correlate of performance in an open-skill sport. Female players with lower digit ratios tended to perform better in several aspects of basketball, especially defensively, and were more likely to be starters, suggesting they are the best players on the team in their positions. These results probably reflect the organizational benefits of prenatal testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makailah Dyer
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health Education, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - Sandra E Short
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health Education, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - Martin Short
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health Education, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - John T Manning
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise, and Medicine (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health Education, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota.,Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences & Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Tomkinson JM, Tomkinson GR. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and muscular strength in adolescent boys. Early Hum Dev 2017; 113:7-9. [PMID: 28697407 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Using a cross-sectional design, this study quantified the relationship between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and muscular strength in 57 adolescent boys. 2D:4D was very likely a moderate negative correlate of handgrip strength, even after adjustment for age and body size. This result may reflect the organizational benefits of prenatal testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grant R Tomkinson
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health Education, University of North Dakota, 2751 2nd Avenue North, Stop 8235, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences & Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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20
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Parkin Kullmann JA, Pamphlett R. Does the index-to-ring finger length ratio (2D:4D) differ in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)? Results from an international online case-control study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016924. [PMID: 28784596 PMCID: PMC5726056 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The ratio of the length of the index finger (2D) to the ring finger (4D) (2D:4D) has been reported to be lower (ie, 2D<4D) in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) than non-ALS controls. This has led to suggestions that exposure to increased prenatal testosterone, which also lowers this ratio, could be a risk factor for ALS. In an attempt to test this hypothesis, we examined 2D:4Ds from large numbers of patients with ALS and controls. SETTING An online multilingual questionnaire enabling respondents to measure their own index and ring finger lengths. PARTICIPANTS Of the initial 949 respondents, 572 remained for analysis after elimination for inability to straighten fingers, not answering the question, statistical outliers and aged <40 years. Respondents remaining for analysis were 202 patients with ALS (125 males, 77 females) and 370 non-ALS controls (112 males, 258 females). RESULTS Unpaired t-tests with 95% CIs were used to assess differences in mean 2D:4Ds. Males had significantly lower mean 2D:4Ds than females, in both ALS and control groups, for both left and right hands. No significant differences were found in 2D:4Ds between ALS and control groups, in either males or females, for either left or right hands. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed no power for 2D:4Ds to predict ALS status in either males or females. CONCLUSIONS 2D:4Ds did not differ between patients with ALS and controls in this study. This was despite the dataset being large enough to confirm the established finding of lower 2D:4Ds in males compared with females. These findings do not support the hypothesis that exposure to increased prenatal testosterone is a risk factor for ALS. A putative lower 2D:4D has been proposed to explain the link between ALS and exercise, but our results indicate that other exercise-related factors are more likely to explain this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Alana Parkin Kullmann
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Roger Pamphlett
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Lu H, Shen D, Wang L, Niu S, Bai C, Ma Z, Huo Z. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and handgrip strength are correlated in women (but not in men) in Hui ethnicity. Early Hum Dev 2017; 109:21-25. [PMID: 28426948 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digit ratio, especially second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is used as a biomarker of prenatal testosterone exposure and was found associated with physical ability, such as handgrip strength (HGS). Recently, this association has been discussed in several ethnic groups. AIMS To investigate correlations between 2D:4D and HGS in Chinese population of Ningxia Hui ethnicity. METHODS Here we firstly present the evidence on digit ratio and HGS of 346 college students (119 males and 227 females) by collecting photographs and HGS of both hands at Yinchuan city, in the Ningxia province of China. RESULTS Females have higher mean values of digit ratio than males; significant variances of 3D:5D (left and right: P<0.05), 2D:3D, 3D:4D (left and right: P<0.01) and 2D:4D, 2D:5D (left and right: P<0.001) were found between different sex. Males showed significantly greater HGS than females on both hands. 2D:4D of both hands were significantly negative correlated with HGS in females (but not in males). CONCLUSIONS 2D:4D ratio is negatively correlated with HGS in a Chinese population (especially in females) of Ningxia Hui ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Lu
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Dan Shen
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Lu Wang
- Clinical Medicine Science, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Shibo Niu
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Chunyue Bai
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Zhanbing Ma
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Zhenghao Huo
- Ningxia Medical University, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia/Basic Medicine Science, Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Yinchuan 750004, PR China.
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Andrievskaya I, Semenova M. Does biological endowment matter for demand for financial services? Evidence from 2D:4D ratio in the Russian household survey. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2016.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kim TB, Kim KH. Why is digit ratio correlated to sports performance? J Exerc Rehabil 2016; 12:515-519. [PMID: 28119871 PMCID: PMC5227311 DOI: 10.12965/jer.1632862.431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Second to fourth digit ratio is the ratio of second to fourth digit length. It has been known that digit ratio is sexually dimorphic in humans, such that males tend to have lower digit ratio (longer fourth digits relative to second digits) than females. Digit ratio is thought to be a biomarker of the balance between fetal testosterone (FT) and fetal estrogen (FE) in a relatively narrow developmental window at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. On the contrary, the relationships between digit ratio and levels of sex steroids in adults are not clear. Most correlational studies between digit ratio and adult sex steroids have revealed that this association is statistically not significant. However, for many years, a lot of researches showed negative relationships between digit ratio and sports performance such as rugby, surfing, rowing, sprinting, endurance, and hand grip strength. Here, we discuss possible mechanisms about the relationships between digit ratio and sports performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Beom Kim
- Department of Urology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Khae Hawn Kim
- Department of Urology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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Shen D, Ma Z, Wang L, Huo Z, Lu H, Zhao J, Qian W. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and handgrip strength in a Chinese population of Han ethnicity. Early Hum Dev 2016; 103:141-145. [PMID: 27685464 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2016.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In humans, the relative lengths of the index finger to the ring finger (2D:4D) is a sexually dimorphic trait which correlated with prenatal sex steroids and has been increasingly used as a promising tool to evaluate the impact of prenatal hormone exposure in some traits, such as physical performance. Handgrip strength (HGS) is one potent index of physical ability and its relationship with 2D:4D ratio has been discussed in several ethnic groups. AIMS To investigate whether there is a correlation between 2D:4D ratio and HGS in Chinese college students of Ningxia Han ethnicity. METHODS 608 students (211 males and 397 females) of Han ethnicity were recruited from Ningxia medical university. Photocopies and HGS of both hands were collected at Yinchuan city, in the Ningxia province of China. RESULTS Sexual dimorphism of 2D:4D and HGS were found, males had significantly lower 2D:4D and greater HGS than females. 2D:4D in both hands were significantly negative correlated with HGS in females and not in males. CONCLUSIONS 2D:4D ratio is negative correlated with HGS in a Chinese population of Ningxia Han ethnicity and this association should be considered on the anthropological research within an evolutionary concept in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Zhanbing Ma
- Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Lu Wang
- Clinical Medicine Science, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Zhenghao Huo
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Yinchuan 750004, PR China; Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Hong Lu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Yinchuan 750004, PR China; Department of Medical Genetic and Cell Biology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, PR China.
| | - Junli Zhao
- Medical Reproductive Center of General Hospital, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
| | - Wenli Qian
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University/Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Yinchuan 750004, PR China
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Frick NA, Hull MJ, Manning JT, Tomkinson GR. Relationships between digit ratio (2D:4D) and basketball performance in Australian men. Am J Hum Biol 2016; 29. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.22937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Frick
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity, Sansom Institute for Health Research and School of Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaide South Australia5001 Australia
| | - Melissa J. Hull
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity, Sansom Institute for Health Research and School of Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaide South Australia5001 Australia
| | - John T. Manning
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise, and Medicine (A‐STEM)Swansea UniversitySwansea United Kingdom
| | - Grant R. Tomkinson
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity, Sansom Institute for Health Research and School of Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaide South Australia5001 Australia
- Department of Kinesiology and Public Health EducationUniversity of North DakotaGrand Forks North Dakota
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