Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
Comparative Analysis of Human Growth Hormone in Serum Using SPRi, Nano-SPRi and ELISA Assays
Published on: January 7, 2016
Circulating microRNA as a biomarker of human growth hormone administration to patients
Brian N Kelly1, Doris M Haverstick, Jae K Lee
1University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Abstract:
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in plasma are being studied for use as biomarkers of specific diseases and as markers of administration of pharmaceutical agents. Administration of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is prohibited by sporting authorities, but it continues to be used by athletes attempting to gain an unfair advantage in athletic competition. Current methods for detection of rhGH use rely on immunoassay technology and are limited by a short time-frame in which detection of rhGH is possible. We hypothesized that administration of rhGH would alter expression of circulating miRNAs and that any changes could be detected. To identify potential miRNA targets, we utilized miRNA microarrays for screening. Confirmatory testing used real-time reverse-transcriptase (RT) quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays of selected miRNAs in 35 plasma samples obtained from (1) individuals with no known pituitary disorders, (2) patients with excess GH production, and (3) patients receiving therapeutic replacement doses of rhGH. We identified and confirmed four miRNAs that were differentially expressed in all individuals using therapeutic replacement doses of rhGH when compared to individuals with naturally high levels of GH and normal controls. This study further develops the hypothesis that circulating miRNAs may be used as biomarkers for detection of doping in sports.
Insights
This study explored if circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) could detect recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) doping in athletes. Researchers found four specific miRNAs altered in athletes using rhGH, suggesting a new detection method for sports doping.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as biomarkers for diseases and pharmaceutical agent administration.
- Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) doping is a concern in sports, but current detection methods have limitations.
- Existing rhGH detection relies on immunoassay technology with a narrow detection window.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if rhGH administration alters circulating miRNA expression.
- To identify potential miRNA biomarkers for detecting rhGH doping in athletes.
- To develop a more sensitive and potentially longer-lasting method for rhGH detection.
Main Methods:
- miRNA microarrays were used for initial screening to identify potential miRNA targets.
- Real-time reverse-transcriptase (RT) quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were employed for confirmatory testing.
- Plasma samples from individuals with normal GH, excess GH, and therapeutic rhGH doses were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Four specific miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in individuals receiving therapeutic rhGH.
- These miRNA expression changes were distinct when compared to individuals with naturally high GH levels and normal controls.
- The study identified a panel of miRNAs potentially indicative of rhGH administration.
Conclusions:
- Circulating miRNAs represent a promising avenue for developing novel biomarkers for sports doping detection.
- The identified differentially expressed miRNAs could form the basis of a new diagnostic test for rhGH abuse.
- This research contributes to the ongoing effort to ensure fair play in athletic competitions through advanced detection methods.
