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Zapata-Linares J, Gervasini G. Contaminants in Dietary Supplements: Toxicity, Doping Risk, and Current Regulation. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2024; 34:232-241. [PMID: 38653450 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2023-0263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Athletes, both amateur and professional, often resort to the consumption of nutritional supplements without professional supervision and without being aware of the risks they may entail. We conducted an exhaustive literature search to determine the most common substances found as contaminants in dietary supplements. For each substance, we analyzed its mechanism of action, clinical indication, health risk, and putative use as doping agent. In addition, we evaluated the current regulation of these supplements. Contamination of nutritional supplements (accidental or intentional), especially with steroids and stimulants, is a hazardous situation. The prolonged consumption of these products without being aware of their composition can cause serious health risks and, in the case of professional athletes, a possible sanction for doping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Zapata-Linares
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Surgical Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Guillermo Gervasini
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Medical and Surgical Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
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Reverter-Branchat G, Segura J, Pozo OJ. On the road of dried blood spot sampling for antidoping tests: Detection of GHRP-2 abuse. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:510-522. [PMID: 33197153 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Dried blood spots (DBSs) sampling is gaining support by the antidoping community because of simplicity and cost-effective characteristics, especially in collection, transport, and storage. Nevertheless, DBS applicability demands specific studies for each of the analytes proposed for testing. Here, GHRP-2 has been selected as a representing member of the growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) family to provide further evidence of DBS suitability for GHRPs abuse detection in sport testing. An analytical procedure to extract GHRP-2 and its main metabolite (AA-3) from DBS and to detect them by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been developed. The method has been validated for the detection of GHRP-2. Specificity and identification capabilities have been assessed in agreement with antidoping guidelines. The low AA-3 levels found in DBS samples prevented its effective application for the determination of this metabolite. The limit of detection (LoD) for GHRP-2 has been established at 50 pg/ml. Long-term stability (>2 years) has been confirmed. The procedure has been successfully applied to actual DBS samples from an administration study with a single intravenous dose of GHRP-2 (100 μg) being detected up to 4 h after drug injection. GHRP-2 concentrations have been higher in venous blood DBS than in capillary blood DBS. Despite the observed differences, a similar detection window has been achieved independently of the type of blood used. In summary, this study provides specific evidence supporting DBS usefulness to detect GHRP-2, and potentially other GHRPs family members, for antidoping tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Reverter-Branchat
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Nutritional Medicine and Metabolism, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Segura
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,Catalonian Antidoping Laboratory, Doping Control Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar J Pozo
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
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Lange T, Thomas A, Walpurgis K, Thevis M. Fully automated dried blood spot sample preparation enables the detection of lower molecular mass peptide and non-peptide doping agents by means of LC-HRMS. Anal Bioanal Chem 2020; 412:3765-3777. [PMID: 32300840 PMCID: PMC7220872 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-02634-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The added value of dried blood spot (DBS) samples complementing the information obtained from commonly routine doping control matrices is continuously increasing in sports drug testing. In this project, a robotic-assisted non-destructive hematocrit measurement from dried blood spots by near-infrared spectroscopy followed by a fully automated sample preparation including strong cation exchange solid-phase extraction and evaporation enabled the detection of 46 lower molecular mass (< 2 kDa) peptide and non-peptide drugs and drug candidates by means of LC-HRMS. The target analytes included, amongst others, agonists of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, the ghrelin receptor, the human growth hormone receptor, and the antidiuretic hormone receptor. Furthermore, several glycine derivatives of growth hormone–releasing peptides (GHRPs), arguably designed to undermine current anti-doping testing approaches, were implemented to the presented detection method. The initial testing assay was validated according to the World Anti-Doping Agency guidelines with estimated LODs between 0.5 and 20 ng/mL. As a proof of concept, authentic post-administration specimens containing GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 were successfully analyzed. Furthermore, DBS obtained from a sampling device operating with microneedles for blood collection from the upper arm were analyzed and the matrix was cross-validated for selected parameters. The introduction of the hematocrit measurement method can be of great value for doping analysis as it allows for quantitative DBS applications by managing the well-recognized “hematocrit effect.” Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Lange
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Thomas
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Katja Walpurgis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mario Thevis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany.
- European Monitoring Center for Emerging Doping Agents (EuMoCEDA), Cologne/Bonn, Germany.
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Sinha DK, Balasubramanian A, Tatem AJ, Rivera-Mirabal J, Yu J, Kovac J, Pastuszak AW, Lipshultz LI. Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males. Transl Androl Urol 2020; 9:S149-S159. [PMID: 32257855 PMCID: PMC7108996 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.11.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male hypogonadism is an increasingly prevalent clinical condition that affects patients’ quality of life and overall health. Obesity and metabolic syndrome can both cause and result from hypogonadism. Although testosterone remains the gold standard for hypogonadism management, its benefits are not always conserved across different populations, especially with regards to changes in body composition. Partially in response to this, growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) have emerged as a potential novel adjunctive therapy for some of the symptoms of hypogonadism, although current data on their clinical efficacy largely remain lacking. The present review examines the existing literature on the use of GHS and explores their potential complementary role in the management of hypogonadal and eugonadal males with metabolic syndrome or subclinical hypogonadism (SH). The GHS that will be discussed include sermorelin, growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRP)-2, GHRP-6, ibutamoren, and ipamorelin. All are potent GH and IGF-1 stimulators that can significantly improve body composition while ameliorating specific hypogonadal symptoms including fat gain and muscular atrophy. However, a paucity of data examining the clinical effects of these compounds currently limits our understanding of GHS’ role in the treatment of men with hypogonadism, but does open opportunities for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Justin Yu
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jason Kovac
- Men's Health Center, Urology of Indiana, Greenwood, IN, USA
| | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Sigalos JT, Pastuszak AW. The Safety and Efficacy of Growth Hormone Secretagogues. Sex Med Rev 2018; 6:45-53. [PMID: 28400207 PMCID: PMC5632578 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Growth hormone (GH) increases lean body mass, decreases fat mass, increases exercise tolerance and maximum oxygen uptake, enhances muscle strength, and improves linear growth. Long-term studies of GH administration offer conflicting results on its safety, which has led to strict Food and Drug Administration criteria for GH use. The potential drawbacks of exogenous GH use are believed to be due in part to impaired regulatory feedback. AIM To review the literature on GH secretagogues (GHSs), which include GH-releasing peptides and the orally available small-molecule drug ibutamoren mesylate. METHODS Review of clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of GHSs in human subjects. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Report on the physiologic changes from GHS use in human subjects including its safety profile. RESULTS GHSs promote pulsatile release of GH that is subject to negative feedback and can prevent supra-therapeutic levels of GH and their sequelae. To date, few long-term, rigorously controlled studies have examined the efficacy and safety of GHSs, although GHSs might improve growth velocity in children, stimulate appetite, improve lean mass in wasting states and in obese individuals, decrease bone turnover, increase fat-free mass, and improve sleep. Available studies indicate that GHSs are well tolerated, with some concern for increases in blood glucose because of decreases in insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSION Further work is needed to better understand the long-term impact of GHSs on human anatomy and physiology and more specifically in the context of a diversity of clinical scenarios. Furthermore, the safety of these compounds with long-term use, including evaluation of cancer incidence and mortality, is needed. Sigalos JT, Pastuszak AW. The Safety and Efficacy of Growth Hormone Secretagogues. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:45-53.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Intended or Unintended Doping? A Review of the Presence of Doping Substances in Dietary Supplements Used in Sports. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9101093. [PMID: 28976928 PMCID: PMC5691710 DOI: 10.3390/nu9101093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The use of dietary supplements is increasing among athletes, year after year. Related to the high rates of use, unintentional doping occurs. Unintentional doping refers to positive anti-doping tests due to the use of any supplement containing unlisted substances banned by anti-doping regulations and organizations, such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The objective of this review is to summarize the presence of unlabeled doping substances in dietary supplements that are used in sports. Methodology: A review of substances/metabolites/markers banned by WADA in ergonutritional supplements was completed using PubMed. The inclusion criteria were studies published up until September 2017, which analyzed the content of substances, metabolites and markers banned by WADA. Results: 446 studies were identified, 23 of which fulfilled all the inclusion criteria. In most of the studies, the purpose was to identify doping substances in dietary supplements. Discussion: Substances prohibited by WADA were found in most of the supplements analyzed in this review. Some of them were prohormones and/or stimulants. With rates of contamination between 12 and 58%, non-intentional doping is a point to take into account before establishing a supplementation program. Athletes and coaches must be aware of the problems related to the use of any contaminated supplement and should pay special attention before choosing a supplement, informing themselves fully and confirming the guarantees offered by the supplement.
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In Vitro Metabolic Studies of REV-ERB Agonists SR9009 and SR9011. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101676. [PMID: 27706103 PMCID: PMC5085709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
SR9009 and SR9011 are attractive as performance-enhancing substances due to their REV-ERB agonist effects and thus circadian rhythm modulation activity. Although no pharmaceutical preparations are available yet, illicit use of SR9009 and SR9011 for doping purposes can be anticipated, especially since SR9009 is marketed in illicit products. Therefore, the aim was to identify potential diagnostic metabolites via in vitro metabolic studies to ensure effective (doping) control. The presence of SR9009 could be demonstrated in a black market product purchased over the Internet. Via human liver microsomal metabolic assays, eight metabolites were detected for SR9009 and fourteen metabolites for SR9011 by liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS). Structure elucidation was performed for all metabolites by LC–HRMS product ion scans in both positive and negative ionization mode. Retrospective data analysis was applied to 1511 doping control samples previously analyzed by a full-scan LC–HRMS screening method to verify the presence of SR9009, SR9011 and their metabolites. So far, the presence of neither the parent compound nor the metabolites could be detected in routine urine samples. However, to further discourage use of these potentially harmful compounds, incorporation of SR9009 and SR9011 into screening methods is highly recommended.
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Della Guardia L, Cavallaro M, Cena H. The risks of self-made diets: the case of an amateur bodybuilder. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2015; 12:16. [PMID: 25908930 PMCID: PMC4407350 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-015-0077-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following DIY (do it yourself) diets as well as consuming supplements exceeding by far the recommended daily intake levels, is common among athletes; these dietary habits often lead to an overconsumption of some macro and/or micronutrients, exposing athletes to potential health risks. The aim of this study is to document the development of possible adverse effects in a 33 year-old amateur bodybuilder who consumed for 16 years a DIY high protein diet associated to nutrient supplementation. Body composition, biochemical measures and anamnestic findings were evaluated. We present this case to put on alert about the possible risks of such behavior repeated over time, focusing on the adverse gastrointestinal effects. We discuss the energy and nutrient composition of his DIY diet as well as the use of supplements. CONCLUSION This study provides preliminary data of the potential risks of a long-term DIY dietary supplementation and a high protein diet. In this case, permanent abdominal discomfort was evidenced in an amateur body builder with an intake exceeding tolerable upper limit for vitamin A, selenium and zinc, according to our national and updated recommendations. As many amateur athletes usually adopt self-made diets and supplementation, it would be advisable for them to be supervised in order to prevent health risks due to a long-term DIY diet and over-supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio Della Guardia
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Human Nutrition, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cavallaro
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Human Nutrition, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Hellas Cena
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Human Nutrition, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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