Androgen abuse in sports

Area of Science:

• Sports science
• Biochemistry
• Anti-doping research

Background:

• Androgens are the most abused ergogenic drugs in sports, with bans in place for over 30 years.
• Current mass spectrometry-based testing faces challenges from designer androgens and indirect doping methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore novel detection methods for androgen doping in sports.
• To address the limitations of current anti-doping strategies against sophisticated circumvention techniques.

Main Methods:

• Review of current androgen doping detection methods, including mass spectrometry.
• Evaluation of in vitro androgen bioassays as a tool for detecting unidentified bioactive androgens.
• Analysis of indirect androgen doping strategies and their impact on endogenous testosterone levels.

Main Results:

• Designer androgens evade detection until their structures are known and added to the Prohibited List.
• In vitro androgen bioassays provide a means for generic detection of unknown bioactive androgens.
• Indirect androgen doping, primarily through neuroendocrine active drugs, often results in transient increases in testosterone.

Conclusions:

• Novel detection methods, such as in vitro bioassays, are crucial for combating sophisticated androgen doping schemes.
• Continued development of detection techniques is necessary to maintain fairness in sports and uphold the integrity of athletic champions.
• The Therapeutic Use Exemption process requires rigorous criteria for athletes needing testosterone replacement therapy due to proven deficiency.