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Peptide hormones and sport: misuse and detection
1Drug Control and Teaching Centre, King's College, London, UK.
British Medical Bulletin
|July 1, 1992
Summary
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) introduced peptide hormones as a doping class in 1989. While definitive tests are lacking, immunoassays may suffice for detecting human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), growth hormone (hGH), and erythropoietin (Epo).
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) classified peptide hormones and analogues as a doping class in 1989.
- This class includes human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), human growth hormone (hGH), and erythropoietin (Epo).
- Current IOC-approved definitive tests for these substances are unavailable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the importance of measuring hCG and luteinizing hormone (LH) in controlling testosterone misuse.
- To suggest strategies for detecting the administration of hGH, ACTH, and Epo.
- To evaluate the potential of immunoassays combined with purification techniques for IOC approval.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing detection methods for peptide hormones.
- Discussion of immunoassay techniques and purification strategies.
- Analysis of hormone detection in relation to doping control.
Main Results:
- Highly specific immunoassays coupled with purification may be adequate for IOC approval.
- Measurement of hCG and LH is crucial for monitoring testosterone abuse.
- Strategies for detecting hGH, ACTH, and Epo administration are proposed.
Conclusions:
- Immunoassays offer a viable path toward IOC approval for detecting banned peptide hormones.
- Effective monitoring of testosterone misuse requires hCG and LH measurement.
- Further development of detection strategies for hGH, ACTH, and Epo is recommended for anti-doping efforts.