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Changes in the microRNA expression profile during blood storage
Anna Haberberger1, Benedikt Kirchner1, Irmgard Riedmaier1,2
1Institute of Animal Physiology and Immunology, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.
BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine
|July 19, 2018
Summary
This study identified a 28 microRNA (miRNA) signature in stored blood, offering a potential new method for detecting autologous blood doping (ABD) in athletes. This biomarker signature could improve anti-doping efforts in sports.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Autologous blood doping (ABD) enhances athletic performance but lacks reliable detection methods.
- ABD involves reinfusing an athlete's own processed red blood cells to boost endurance.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in erythrocytes are increasingly recognized as potential biomarkers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discover and validate microRNAs (miRNAs) in fresh and stored blood for ABD detection.
- To identify miRNA alterations resulting from erythrocyte processing and storage.
- To establish a potential miRNA-based biomarker signature for autologous blood doping.
Main Methods:
- Small RNA Next Generation Sequencing was used for untargeted miRNA detection.
- Blood samples were analyzed from 12 healthy males before donation and from stored blood bags.
- miRNA profiles were compared between fresh blood and blood after processing and storage.
Main Results:
- 189 miRNAs remained stable over two weeks of storage.
- A signature of 28 miRNAs was identified, differentiating processed/stored blood from fresh blood.
- This signature included 6 miRNAs altered by storage and 22 by processing.
Conclusions:
- The identified 28-miRNA signature shows promise for detecting autologous blood doping (ABD).
- Further validation in a clinical trial is underway to confirm its efficacy in athletes.
- This miRNA biomarker signature could significantly advance anti-doping strategies in sports.
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