Doping control container for urine stabilization: a pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Urine collection containers lack protection against microbial and enzymatic degradation.
• Degradation compromises the integrity of doping control samples.
• Existing methods for sample preservation are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an improved chemical stabilization mixture for urine samples.
• To assess the efficacy of spray-coated stabilization in pilot urine collection containers.
• To investigate potential interferences with analytical testing procedures.

Main Methods:

• Development of a chemical mixture with antimicrobial agents and protease inhibitors.
• Spray-coating the mixture onto the internal surface of plastic urine containers.
• Incubation of urine samples in stabilized containers and testing by WADA-accredited laboratories.
• Evaluation of microorganism elimination, steroid glucuronide stability, and protein/peptide degradation.
• Analysis of potential interferences using routine screening methods.

Main Results:

• The spray-coated stabilization mixture effectively eliminated microorganisms.
• Degradation of steroid glucuronides and proteins (hCG, EPO, GHRPs) was prevented.
• Stabilization efficiency was confirmed across multiple WADA-accredited laboratories.
• Potential analytical interferences were identified and recorded.

Conclusions:

• The spray-coated plastic urine container is a viable improvement for doping control procedures.
• This method enhances the stability and reliability of urine samples.
• Further research should focus on optimizing the mixture and application for routine use.