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Viljanto M, Kaabia Z, Taylor P, Hincks P, Muir T, Habershon-Butcher J, Bailly-Chouriberry L, Scarth J. Detection of boldenone in the urine of female horses-ex vivo formation versus administration. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:112-126. [PMID: 37264746 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3521] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Boldenone is an anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that is prohibited in equine sports. However, in certain situations, it is endogenous, potentially formed by the microbes in urine. An approach to the differentiation based on the detection of the biomarkers Δ1-progesterone, 20(S)-hydroxy-Δ1-progesterone and 20(S)-hydroxyprogesterone was assessed, and their concentrations were monitored in the urine of untreated female horses (n = 291) alongside boldenone, boldienone, testosterone and androstenedione. Using an ultra-sensitive analytical method, boldenone (256 ± 236 pg/mL, n = 290) and the biomarkers (Δ1-progesterone up to 57.6 pg/mL, n = 8; 20(S)-hydroxy-Δ1-progesterone 85.3 ± 181 pg/mL, n = 130; 20(S)-hydroxyprogesterone 43.5 ± 92.1 pg/mL, n = 158) were detected at low concentrations. The ex vivo production of Δ1-steroids was artificially induced following the storage of urine samples at room temperature for 7 days in order to assess the concentrations and ratios of the monitored steroids. The administration of inappropriately stored feed source also resulted in an increase in 20(S)-hydroxy-Δ1-progesterone concentrations and the biomarker ratios. Using the results from different datasets, an approach to differentiation was developed. In situations where the presence of boldenone exceeds a proposed action limit of 5 ng/mL, the presence of the biomarkers would be investigated. If Δ1-progesterone is above 50 pg/mL or if 20(S)-hydroxy-Δ1-progesterone is above 100 pg/mL with the ratio of 20(S)-hydroxy-Δ1-progesterone:20(S)-hydroxyprogesterone greater than 5:1, then this would indicate ex vivo transformation or consumption of altered feed rather than steroid administration. There remains a (small) possibility of a false negative result, but the model increases confidence that adverse analytical findings reported in female horses are caused by AAS administrations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zied Kaabia
- GIE LCH, Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | | | | | - Tessa Muir
- British Horseracing Authority, London, UK
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2
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Viljanto M, Kaabia Z, Taylor P, Muir T, Habershon-Butcher J, Bailly-Chouriberry L, Scarth J. DIFFERENTIATION OF BOLDENONE ADMINISTRATION FROM EX VIVO TRANSFORMATION IN THE URINE OF CASTRATED MALE HORSES. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:887-901. [PMID: 35178884 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zied Kaabia
- GIE LCH, Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | | | - Tessa Muir
- British Horseracing Authority, London, UK.,USADA, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
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3
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Viljanto M, Kicman AT, Walker CJ, Wolff K, Muir T, Hincks P, Biddle S, Scarth J. Bioformation of boldenone and related precursors/metabolites in equine feces and urine, with relevance to doping control. Drug Test Anal 2019; 12:215-229. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marjaana Viljanto
- LGC, Fordham Cambridgeshire UK
- Drug Control Centre, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Research DivisionKing's College London UK
| | - Andrew T. Kicman
- Drug Control Centre, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Research DivisionKing's College London UK
| | - Christopher J. Walker
- Drug Control Centre, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Research DivisionKing's College London UK
| | - Kim Wolff
- Drug Control Centre, Analytical and Environmental Sciences Research DivisionKing's College London UK
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4
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Decloedt A, Damen S, Vanhaecke L. Revealing the influence of glucocorticoid treatment on the excretion of anabolic-androgenic steroids in horses through in vitro digestive simulations and an in vivo case study. Res Vet Sci 2017; 115:132-137. [PMID: 28342428 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are strictly forbidden in equine sports because of their stimulating effect on muscle growth and performance. Nevertheless, low levels of AAS have been found in some horses, untreated with AAS. Glucocorticoids (GC), used as an anti-inflammatory therapy and structurally related to AAS, might play a role in this phenomenon. In order to unravel this possible correlation the influence of glucocorticoid treatment on the excretion of AAS was studied both in vivo and in vitro. In vivo effects were investigated by analysing urine samples collected from a gelding treated with betamethasone. Additionally, multiple in vitro digestion simulations were set up, according to a previously validated protocol, to study the possibility of a direct biotransformation of glucocorticoids to AAS, by the microbiota of the equine hindgut. Urine and in vitro digestion samples were extracted and analysed with UHPLC-MS/MS and UHPLC-Orbitrap-HRMS analytical methods. A significant influence on the urinary excretion of α-testosterone (αT), β-testosterone (βT) and androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD) was seen. αT-concentrations up to 20ng/mL were detected. ADD was not found before treatment but could be detected post-treatment. Cortisone and cortisol also peaked (>30ng/mL) between day 37 and 48 post-treatment. The in vitro digestion results however revealed no direct biotransformation of glucocorticoids to AAS by the microbiota of the equine hindgut. This study shows that a glucocorticoid treatment can disrupt the synthesis and excretion of AAS, not by direct biotransformation upon gastrointestinal digestion, but more likely by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneleen Decloedt
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Ghent University, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Brewing, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Applied Biosciences, 1 Valentin Vaerwyckweg, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sander Damen
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lynn Vanhaecke
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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5
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Decloedt A, Bailly-Chouriberry L, Vanden Bussche J, Garcia P, Popot MA, Bonnaire Y, Vanhaecke L. Mouldy feed: A possible explanation for the excretion of anabolic-androgenic steroids in horses. Drug Test Anal 2016; 8:525-34. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A.I. Decloedt
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis; Merelbeke Belgium
| | | | - J. Vanden Bussche
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis; Merelbeke Belgium
| | - P. Garcia
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques; Verrières-le-Buisson; France
| | - M.-A. Popot
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques; Verrières-le-Buisson; France
| | - Y. Bonnaire
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques; Verrières-le-Buisson; France
| | - L. Vanhaecke
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis; Merelbeke Belgium
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6
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Chiesa L, Nobile M, Panseri S, Vigo D, Pavlovic R, Arioli F. Suitability of bovine bile compared to urine for detection of free, sulfate and glucuronate boldenone, androstadienedione, cortisol, cortisone, prednisolone, prednisone and dexamethasone by LC–MS/MS. Food Chem 2015; 188:473-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2015.04.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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7
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Decloedt AI, Bailly-Chouriberry L, Vanden Bussche J, Garcia P, Popot MA, Bonnaire Y, Vanhaecke L. In vitro simulation of the equine hindgut as a tool to study the influence of phytosterol consumption on the excretion of anabolic-androgenic steroids in horses. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 152:180-92. [PMID: 26094581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, steroids other than testosterone are considered to be synthetic, anabolic steroids. Nevertheless, in stallions, it has been shown that β-Bol can originate from naturally present testosterone. Other precursors, including phytosterols from feed, have been put forward to explain the prevalence of low levels of steroids (including β-Bol and ADD) in urine of mares and geldings. However, the possible biotransformation and identification of the precursors has thus far not been investigated in horses. To study the possible endogenous digestive transformation, in vitro simulations of the horse hindgut were set up, using fecal inocula obtained from eight different horses. The functionality of the in vitro model was confirmed by monitoring the formation of short-chain fatty acids and the consumption of amino acids and carbohydrates throughout the digestion process. In vitro digestion samples were analyzed with a validated UHPLC-MS/MS method. The addition of β-Bol gave rise to the formation of ADD (androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione) or αT. Upon addition of ADD to the in vitro digestions, the transformation of ADD to β-Bol was observed and this for all eight horses' inocula, in line with previously obtained in vivo results, again confirming the functionality of the in vitro model. The transformation ratio proved to be inoculum and thus horse dependent. The addition of pure phytosterols (50% β-sitosterol) or phytosterol-rich herbal supplements on the other hand, did not induce the detection of β-Bol, only low concentrations of AED, a testosterone precursor, could be found (0.1 ng/mL). As such, the digestive transformation of ADD could be linked to the detection of β-Bol, and the consumption of phytosterols to low concentrations of AED, but there is no direct link between phytosterols and β-Bol.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Decloedt
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L Bailly-Chouriberry
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, 15 Rue de Paradis, 91370 Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | - J Vanden Bussche
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - P Garcia
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, 15 Rue de Paradis, 91370 Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | - M-A Popot
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, 15 Rue de Paradis, 91370 Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | - Y Bonnaire
- L.C.H., Laboratoire des Courses Hippiques, 15 Rue de Paradis, 91370 Verrières-le-Buisson, France
| | - L Vanhaecke
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, 133 Salisburylaan, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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8
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Chiesa L, Pasquale E, Panseri S, Cannizzo FT, Biolatti B, Pavlovic R, Arioli F. Pseudoendogenous presence of β-boldenone sulphate and glucuronide in untreated young bulls from the food chain. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2015; 32:825-32. [DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2015.1027965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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9
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Decloedt A, Bailly-Chouriberry L, Vanden Bussche J, Garcia P, Popot MA, Bonnaire Y, Vanhaecke L. A validated UHPLC-MS/MS method to quantify low levels of anabolic-androgenic steroids naturally present in urine of untreated horses. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:4385-96. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-014-8428-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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10
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Chiesa L, Nobile M, Panseri S, Sgoifo Rossi CA, Pavlovic R, Arioli F. Detection of boldenone, its conjugates and androstadienedione, as well as five corticosteroids in bovine bile through a unique immunoaffinity column clean-up and two validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analyses. Anal Chim Acta 2014; 852:137-45. [PMID: 25441890 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Revised: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The presence of β-boldenone II phase metabolites and prednisolone in urine samples, owing to endogenous or natural origin or illicit treatment, is under debate within the European Union. The detection of β-boldenone conjugates, α-boldenone conjugates at concentrations higher than 2 ng mL(-1) and prednisolone above the cut-off level of 5 ng mL(-1) in urine have been, until now, critical in deciding if illegal drug use has occurred. The use of urine sometimes is not entirely satisfactory, especially when the drug is administrated at low doses or when its metabolic conversion is very fast. This subsequently would hamper its detection in urine. The introduction of a new, advantageous matrix where the illicit treatment can be investigated would be highly appreciated. In this study, we have developed and validated a simple and unique immunoaffinity clean-up procedure, which was applied to bovine bile samples, followed by two different analytical liquid chromatography-electrospray-tandem mass spectrometry methods. The first method tests androstadienedione, α- and β-boldenone sulphate, glucuronate and related free forms, while the other method assays prednisolone, prednisone, dexamethasone, cortisone, and cortisol. The methods were validated according to European Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. The evaluated parameters were linearity, specificity, precision (repeatability and intra-laboratory reproducibility), recovery, decision limit and detection capability. The decision limits (CCα) were between 0.38 and 0.45 ng mL(-1) for anabolic steroids, and 0.13 and 0.15 ng mL(-1) as far as corticosteroids were concerned. Intra- and inter-day repeatability was below 15.8 and 19.9% for all analytes, respectively. The methods were applied to the analysis of some bile samples collected from untreated young bulls in order to investigate the presence of the studied steroids in this matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Science and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - M Nobile
- Department of Veterinary Science and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - S Panseri
- Department of Veterinary Science and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - C A Sgoifo Rossi
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - R Pavlovic
- Department of Veterinary Science and Public Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - F Arioli
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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11
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Snoj T, Dolenc J, Kobal S. Sex steroid levels in urine of cattle of different ages: evaluation of abuse control procedures. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2014; 31:614-20. [DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2013.880000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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12
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Bredehöft M, Baginski R, Parr MK, Thevis M, Schänzer W. Investigations of the microbial transformation of cortisol to prednisolone in urine samples. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2012; 129:54-60. [PMID: 20435141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2010.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2009] [Revised: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 04/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Doping control samples are normally collected under non-sterile conditions and sometimes, storage and transportation are influenced by parameters such as the temperature. Therefore, microbial contamination and subsequent alteration of a sample's composition are possible. Studies regarding sample collection in cattle breeding have already shown enzymatic transformation of endogenous testosterone to boldenone causing false-positive findings. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether positive doping cases with the synthetic corticosteroids prednisolone and prednisone may result from microbial transformation of the endogenous corticosteroids cortisol and cortisone, respectively. A method comprising parameters such as pH values and screening results for synthetic glucocorticosteroids as well as incubation experiments followed by liquid chromatographic and mass spectrometric analysis was employed to test for contaminating germs with Δ(1)-dehydrogenase activity. Over 700 urine samples comprising inpatient and doping control specimens were investigated. In none of them, 1,2-dehydrogenating activity was confirmed. These findings are in accordance with other studies. However, the problem of microbial alteration of doping control specimens with special respect to 1,2-dehydrogenation must not be underestimated. Article from a special issue on steroids and microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bredehöft
- Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany. michael
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13
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Havens SM, Hedman CJ, Hemming JDC, Mieritz MG, Shafer MM, Schauer JJ. Stability, preservation, and quantification of hormones and estrogenic and androgenic activities in surface water runoff. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2010; 29:2481-2490. [PMID: 20865698 DOI: 10.1002/etc.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Degradation of hormones that may occur during storage of surface water samples can lead to underestimations in estrogenic and androgenic activities and inaccuracies in hormone concentrations. The current study investigated the use of sodium azide, hydrochloric acid (HCl), and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) to inhibit the degradation of hormones and estrogenic and androgenic activities in samples of surface water runoff from cattle manure-amended fields during storage at 4°C. Hormones and hormone metabolites were extracted using solid-phase extraction and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with tandem MS. Estrogenic and androgenic activities were assessed by E-screen and A-screen, respectively. Results of the current study indicate significant degradation of estrogenic, androgenic, and progestogenic hormones and activities, which is likely attributable to microbial activity, within hours of sample collection. The inclusion of internal standards provides a means to account for hormone losses caused by extraction inefficiency and to some extent degradation. However, internal standards are unable to adequately account for significant losses and are not available for E-screen and A-screen. Sodium azide did not adequately inhibit androgen degradation at the concentration used (1 g/L). Acid preservation (HCl or H₂SO₄, pH 2) stabilized the estrogenic and androgenic activities, and coupling acid preservation with the use of internal standards resulted in reliable and accurate recovery of a suite of androgens, estrogens, and progestogens for up to 14 d of storage at 4°C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya M Havens
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Environmental Chemistry and Technology Program, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA.
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14
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Piper T, Geyer H, Gougoulidis V, Flenker U, Schänzer W. Determination of (13)C/(12)C ratios of urinary excreted boldenone and its main metabolite 5beta-androst-1-en-17beta-ol-3-one. Drug Test Anal 2010; 2:217-24. [PMID: 20468009 DOI: 10.1002/dta.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Boldenone (androsta-1,4-dien-17beta-ol-3-one, Bo) is an anabolic steroid known to have been used in cattle breeding or equine sport as a doping agent for many years. Although not clinically approved for human application, Bo or its main metabolite 5beta-androst-1-en-17beta-ol-3-one (BM1) were detected in several doping control samples. For more than 15 years the possibility of endogenous Bo production in human beings has been discussed. This is a challenging issue for doping control laboratories as Bo belongs to the list of prohibited substances of the World Anti-Doping Agency and therefore the chance for false positive testing is significant. By GC/C/IRMS (gas chromatography/combustion/isotope ratio mass spectrometry) it should be possible to analyze the (13)C/(12)C ratio of either Bo or BM1 and to distinguish whether their source is endogenous or exogenous. Therefore a method was developed to determine the (13)C/(12)C ratios of Bo, BM1, pregnanediol, androsterone, etiocholanolone, and testosterone from a single urine specimen. The validity of the method was ensured by repeated processing of urine fortified with 2-50 ng/mL Bo and BM1. The specificity of the method was ensured by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry determinations. Out of 23 samples investigated throughout the last four years, 11 showed (13)C/(12)C ratios of Bo or BM1 inconsistent with an exogenous origin. Two of these samples were collected from the same athlete within a one-month interval, strongly indicating the chance of endogenous Bo production by this athlete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Piper
- German Sport University Cologne, Institute of Biochemistry, Köln, Germany.
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15
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Scarth J, Akre C, van Ginkel L, Le Bizec B, De Brabander H, Korth W, Points J, Teale P, Kay J. Presence and metabolism of endogenous androgenic-anabolic steroid hormones in meat-producing animals: a review. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2010; 26:640-71. [PMID: 19680938 DOI: 10.1080/02652030802627160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The presence and metabolism of endogenous steroid hormones in meat-producing animals has been the subject of much research over the past 40 years. While significant data are available, no comprehensive review has yet been performed. Species considered in this review are bovine, porcine, ovine, equine, caprine and cervine, while steroid hormones include the androgenic-anabolic steroids testosterone, nandrolone and boldenone, as well as their precursors and metabolites. Information on endogenous steroid hormone concentrations is primarily useful in two ways: (1) in relation to pathological versus 'normal' physiology and (2) in relation to the detection of the illegal abuse of these hormones in residue surveillance programmes. Since the major focus of this review is on the detection of steroids abuse in animal production, the information gathered to date is used to guide future research. A major deficiency in much of the existing published literature is the lack of standardization and formal validation of experimental approach. Key articles are cited that highlight the huge variation in reported steroid concentrations that can result when samples are analysed by different laboratories under different conditions. These deficiencies are in most cases so fundamental that it is difficult to make reliable comparisons between data sets and hence it is currently impossible to recommend definitive detection strategies. Standardization of the experimental approach would need to involve common experimental protocols and collaboratively validated analytical methods. In particular, standardization would need to cover everything from the demographic of the animal population studied, the method of sample collection and storage (especially the need to sample live versus slaughter sampling since the two methods of surveillance have very different requirements, particularly temporally), sample preparation technique (including mode of extraction, hydrolysis and derivatization), the end-point analytical detection technique, validation protocols, and the statistical methods applied to the resulting data. Although efforts are already underway (at HFL and LABERCA) to produce more definitive data and promote communication among the scientific community on this issue, the convening of a formal European Union working party is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Scarth
- HFL Sport Science (a Quotient Bioresearch Company), Fordham, UK.
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16
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Verheyden K, Noppe H, Zorn H, Van Immerseel F, Vanden Bussche J, Wille K, Bekaert K, Janssen CR, De Brabander HF, Vanhaecke L. Endogenous boldenone-formation in cattle: alternative invertebrate organisms to elucidate the enzymatic pathway and the potential role of edible fungi on cattle's feed. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 119:161-70. [PMID: 20197090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2010.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2009] [Revised: 02/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although beta-boldenone (bBol) used to be a marker of illegal steroid administration in calves, its endogenous formation has recently been demonstrated in these vertebrates. However, research on the pathway leading to bBol remains scarce. This study shows the usefulness of in vivo invertebrate models as alternatives to vertebrate animal experiments, using Neomysis integer and Lucilia sericata. In accordance with vertebrates, androstenedione (AED) was the main metabolite of beta-testosterone (bT) produced by these invertebrates, and bBol was also frequently detected. Moreover, in vitro experiments using feed-borne fungi and microsomes were useful to perform the pathway from bT to bBol. Even the conversion of phytosterols into steroids was shown in vitro. Both in vivo and in vitro, the conversion of bT into bBol could be demonstrated in this study. Metabolism of phytosterols by feed-borne fungi may be of particular importance to explain the endogenous bBol-formation by cattle. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time the latter pathway is described in literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Verheyden
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research Group of Veterinary Public Health and Zoonoses, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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17
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Destrez B, Bichon E, Rambaud L, Courant F, Monteau F, Pinel G, Antignac JP, Le Bizec B. Criteria to distinguish between natural situations and illegal use of boldenone, boldenone esters and boldione in cattle 2. Direct measurement of 17beta-boldenone sulpho-conjugate in calf urine by liquid chromatography--high resolution and tandem mass spectrometry. Steroids 2009; 74:803-8. [PMID: 19409402 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2009.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Boldenone is banned in the European Union (Directive 96/22/EC) as growth promoter for meat producing animals. Boldione (ADD), boldenone and boldenone esters (mainly the undecylenate form) are commercially available as anabolic preparations, either to the destination of human, horse or cattle. Since the late 90s, the natural occurrence of boldenone metabolites has been reported in cattle. According to EU regulation, the unambiguous demonstration of boldenone administration in bovine urine should be provided on the basis of boldenone identification in the corresponding conjugate fraction. An analytical method has been developed and validated according to current standards with main concern to the measurement of intact 17beta-boldenone-sulphate. The analytical procedure included direct extraction-purification of target analyte on octadecylsilyl cartridges and direct detection of phase II metabolite by liquid chromatography (negative electrospray), tandem mass spectrometry (QqQ) or high resolution mass spectrometry (Orbitrap). Decision limit (CCalpha) and detection capability (CCbeta) were respectively 0.2 microg L(-1) and 0.4 microg L(-1) on triple quadrupole and 0.1 microg L(-1) and 0.2 microg L(-1) on hybrid system. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of incurred samples collected in different experiments. 17beta-Boldenone-sulphate was measurable up to 36h after oral administration of boldione, and 30 days after 17beta-boldenone undecylenate intra-muscular injection. This conjugate form was never detected in non-treated animals, confirming its status of definitive candidate marker for boldenone administration in calf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blandine Destrez
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments (LABERCA), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Nantes (ENVN), BP 50707, Route de Gachet, 44307 Nantes Cedex 3, France
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18
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Gavinelli M, Arioli F, Fracchiolla ML, Casati A, Pompa G. Simultaneous measurement of boldenone (alpha and beta), ADD, testosterone, epitestosterone and AED in bovine faeces. Vet Res Commun 2008; 32 Suppl 1:S295-8. [PMID: 18688741 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-008-9132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Gavinelli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Technologies for Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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19
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Van Poucke C, Van Vossel E, Van Peteghem C. Fractionation of free and conjugated steroids for the detection of boldenone metabolites in calf urine with ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2008; 22:2324-2332. [PMID: 18615838 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.3617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
For over a decade there has been an intensive debate on the possible natural origin of boldenone (androst-1,4-diene-17beta-ol-3-one, 17beta-boldenone) in calf urine and several alternative markers to discriminate between endogenously formed boldenone and exogenously administered boldenone have been suggested. The currently approved method for proving illegal administration of beta-boldenone(ester) is the detection of beta-boldenone conjugates. In the presented method the sulphate, glucuronide and free fractions are separated from each other during cleanup on a SAX column to be able to determine the conjugated status of the boldenone metabolites. The sulphate and glucuronide fractions are submitted to hydrolysis and all three fractions are further cleaned up on a combination of C18/NH2 solid-phase extraction (SPE) columns. Chromatographic separation of the boldenone metabolites was achieved with a Waters Acquity UPLC instrument using a Sapphire C18 (1.7 microm; 2x50 mm) column within 5 min. Detection of the analytes was achieved by electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry. The decision limits of this method, validated according to Commission Decision 2002/657/EC, were 0.08 ng mL(-1) for androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione, 0.13 ng mL(-1) for androst-4-ene-3,17-dione, 0.11 ng mL(-1) for 17alpha-boldenone, 0.07 ng mL(-1) for 17beta-boldenone, 0.24 ng mL(-1) for 5beta-androst-1-en-17beta-ol-3-one and 0.58 ng mL(-1) for 6beta-hydroxy-17beta-boldenone. Because of the fractionation approach used in this method there is no need for conjugated reference standards which often are not available. The disadvantage of needing three analytical runs to determine the conjugated status of each of the metabolites was overcome by using fast chromatography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christof Van Poucke
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
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20
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Arioli F, Gavinelli MP, Fracchiolla ML, Casati A, Fidani M, Ferrer E, Pompa G. Evaluation of boldenone formation and related steroids transformations in veal faeces by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2008; 22:217-223. [PMID: 18085508 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.3361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
It is established that bovine urine can result positive for boldenone and androstadienedione in consequence of faecal contamination. The simple transfer of steroids to urine is one minor aspect of faecal contamination. A high de novo production of steroids in faeces after deposition and in faeces-contaminated urine is almost certainly due to microbial activity, although the precursor compounds and transformations leading to the presence of these illegal steroids are unclear. We developed a simple in vitro method - incubation of faecal matter suspended in 0.9% saline - to induce steroid transformations in faeces, and analyzed the products by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry, without the need for prior extraction. Norethandrolone was the internal standard. The linearity (R(2): 0.987-0.999), sensitivity (LODs: 0.3 to 1.0 ng/mL; LOQs: 1.0 to 3.0 ng/mL), precision (intra-day CVs: 2.6-8.2; inter-day CVs: 4.5-11.5) and accuracy (percentage recovery: 89-120%) were calculated for the studied steroids. Androstenedione, androstadienedione, alpha- and beta-boldenone, testosterone and epitestosterone transformations were investigated. Mutual interconversion of steroids was observed, although 17beta-hydroxy steroids had low stability compared with 17alpha-hydroxy and 17-keto steroids. The results suggest that this simple in vitro system may be an effective way of studying hormone transformations in faeces and, after analogue studies, in faeces-contaminated urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Arioli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Technologies for Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, Milan, Italy.
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21
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Popot MA, Boyer S, Menaut L, Garcia P, Bonnaire Y, Lesage D. Boldenone, testosterone and 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione determination in faeces from horses, untreated and after administration of androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (boldione). Biomed Chromatogr 2008; 22:662-70. [DOI: 10.1002/bmc.985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Draisci R, Montesissa C, Santamaria B, D'Ambrosio C, Ferretti G, Merlanti R, Ferranti C, De Liguoro M, Cartoni C, Pistarino E, Ferrara L, Tiso M, Scaloni A, Cosulich ME. Integrated analytical approach in veal calves administered the anabolic androgenic steroids boldenone and boldione: urine and plasma kinetic profile and changes in plasma protein expression. Proteomics 2007; 7:3184-93. [PMID: 17676661 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200601039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Surveillance of illegal use of steroids hormones in cattle breeding is a key issue to preserve human health. To this purpose, an integrated approach has been developed for the analysis of plasma and urine from calves treated orally with a single dose of a combination of the androgenic steroids boldenone and boldione. A quantitative estimation of steroid hormones was obtained by LC-APCI-Q-MS/MS analysis of plasma and urine samples obtained at various times up to 36 and 24 h after treatment, respectively. These experiments demonstrated that boldione was never found, while boldenone alpha- and beta-epimers were detected in plasma and urine only within 2 and 24 h after drug administration, respectively. Parallel proteomic analysis of plasma samples was obtained by combined 2-DE, MALDI-TOF-MS and muLC-ESI-IT-MS/MS procedures. A specific protein, poorly represented in normal plasma samples collected before treatment, was found upregulated even 36 h after hormone treatment. Extensive mass mapping experiments proved this component as an N-terminal truncated form of apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), a protein involved in cholesterol transport. The expression profile of ApoA1 analysed by Western blot analysis confirmed a significant and time dependent increase of this ApoA1 fragment. Then, provided that further experiments performed with a growth-promoting schedule will confirm these preliminary findings, truncated ApoA1 may be proposed as a candidate biomarker for steroid boldenone and possibly other anabolic androgens misuse in cattle veal calves, when no traces of hormones are detectable in plasma or urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Draisci
- Department of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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23
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Gallina G, Ferretti G, Merlanti R, Civitareale C, Capolongo F, Draisci R, Montesissa C. Boldenone, boldione, and milk replacers in the diet of veal calves: the effects of phytosterol content on the urinary excretion of boldenone metabolites. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2007; 55:8275-83. [PMID: 17844992 DOI: 10.1021/jf071097c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Twenty-six veal calves were split into two groups and fed two milk replacers with a different content of phytosterols for 26 days; then, 14 calves (7 animals from each diet) were kept as controls and 12 calves (6 per diet) received daily, per os, a combination of 17beta-boldenone (17beta-Bol) and androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione (ADD) for 38 days. The urinary elimination of 17 alpha-/17beta-boldenone conjugates (17 alpha/beta-Bol) and androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione (ADD) was followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry from all of the animals until slaughtering. In urine from treated animals, 17 alpha-Bol concentrations, despite a great variability, were greater than 17beta-Bol, both detected always as conjugates. At days 1, 2, and 3, the mean urine concentration of 17 alpha-Bol was higher than 12 ng/mL. A remarkable decrease was observed during the following days, but the 17 alpha-Bol concentration was still higher than the attention level of 2 ng/mL in 58% of the samples; the concentration of 17beta-Bol was around the action level of 1 ng/mL; two days after treatment withdrawal, no 17beta-Bol was detected in the urine. In urine from control animals, the 17 alpha-Bol concentration was strictly related to the phytosterol content of the diet, while, in urine from treated animals, the much higher 17 alpha-Bol levels were not modified by the production from diet precursors. The results confirmed that a 17 alpha-Bol level higher than 2 ng/mL should be considered as evidence of suspected illegal treatment and that the urinary excretion of 17beta-Bol is due to exogenous administration of 17beta-Bol. The discontinuous rate of elimination of both 17 alpha- and 17beta-Bol, despite the daily administration of 17beta-Bol plus ADD, indicates the necessity for further research to detect other urinary boldenone metabolites to strength surveillance strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gallina
- Department of Public Health Comparative Pathology and Veterinary Hygiene, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.
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24
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Blokland MH, van Rossum HJ, Sterk SS, van Ginkel LA, Stephany RW. Development of a method which discriminates between endogenous and exogenous β-boldenone. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 586:147-53. [PMID: 17386706 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2006.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2006] [Revised: 07/26/2006] [Accepted: 08/03/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
One potential explanation for the presence of beta-boldenone in calf urine is contamination of the sample with feces containing beta-boldenone. It has been demonstrated that after oral and intramuscular administration of beta-boldenone esters, several metabolites are formed and excreted in urine. One of the (minor) metabolites is 6beta-hydroxy-17alpha-boldenone. This paper describes an analytical method that can discriminate between unconjugated boldenone, its glucuronide- and sulphate-conjugates, 6beta-hydroxy-17alpha/beta-boldenone and coprostanol, a marker for fecal contamination. The method was applied to all samples suspected to contain boldenone within the Dutch National Residue Control Plan. Approximately 10,000 samples of urine were screened (LC-MS) in 2004-2005 by VWA-East, one of the official Dutch control laboratories, from which 261 samples were suspected to contain boldenone. These samples were all analyzed for their conjugation state, 6beta-hydroxy-17alpha/beta-boldenone and for the presence of coprostanol. Alfa-boldenone, the major metabolite in bovine urine after boldenone-ester administration, was found in a large number of these samples. The presence of alpha-boldenone was proven also to be a result of fecal contamination. None of the samples tested contained residues of the metabolite 6beta-hydroxy-17alpha/beta-boldenone. Not finding this metabolite indicates that the origin of alpha-boldenone-conjugates is endogenous. The results confirm that the presence of unconjugated beta-boldenone and alpha-boldenone conjugates next to alpha-boldenone are no indicators for illegal administration of boldenone-esters. No indications were obtained that conjugated beta-boldenone can be of endogenous origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H Blokland
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), European Union Community Reference Laboratory for Residues, P.O. Box 1, NL-3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
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25
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De Brabander HF, Verheyden K, Mortier V, Le Bizec B, Verbeke W, Courtheyn D, Noppe H. Phytosterols and anabolic agents versus designer drugs. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 586:49-56. [PMID: 17386696 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2006.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol is a well-known component in fats of animal origin and it also is the precursor of natural hormones. Phytosterols appear in plants and only differ slightly in structure from cholesterol. An important difference however is the low absorption in the gut of phytosterols and their saturated derivatives, the phytostanols. As a result, there is time for all kind of reactions in faecal material inside and outside of the gut. Determination of the abuse of natural hormones may be based on gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS). Abuse of natural hormones changes the 13C/12C ratio of some metabolites during a relatively long time. The formation of (natural) hormones in the gut may interfere with this method. Designer drugs are mainly known from sports doping. In animal fattening, designer drugs may be used as well. Small changes in the structure of (natural) hormones may lead to a new group of substances asking for new strategies for their detection and the constatation of their abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- H F De Brabander
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research group of Veterinary Public Health and Zoonoses, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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26
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Draisci R, Merlanti R, Ferretti G, Fantozzi L, Ferranti C, Capolongo F, Segato S, Montesissa C. Excretion profile of boldenone in urine of veal calves fed two different milk replacers. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 586:171-6. [PMID: 17386709 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2007.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2006] [Revised: 01/11/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The residue profiles of 17alpha-/17beta-boldenone conjugated (17alpha/beta-Bol) and ADD were investigated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in urine of male veal calves fed two commercial milk replacers, with different content of cholesterol and phytosterols. The urine samples were collected within 4 h after feeding and further from all the animals. Detectable amounts of 17alpha-Bol conjugated were measured in urine collected from all calves, but the concentrations of 17alpha-Bol were higher in urine from calves receiving the milk replacer with the greater amount of phytosterols. During the whole experiment, 17beta-Bol and ADD were never detected in urine samples collected.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Draisci
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Department of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy
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27
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Verheyden K, Noppe H, Mortier V, Vercruysse J, Claerebout E, Van Immerseel F, Janssen CR, De Brabander HF. Formation of boldenone and boldenone-analogues by maggots of Lucilia sericata. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 586:163-70. [PMID: 17386708 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2006.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2006] [Revised: 10/23/2006] [Accepted: 11/03/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Current evidence suggests that neo formation of the anabolic steroid boldenone (androsta-1,4-diene-17-ol-3-one) occurs in calves' faecal material, making it difficult to distinguish between illegally administered boldenone and its potential endogenous presence. This strengthens the urgent need to elucidate the pathway leading to boldenone formation. In our laboratory, the invertebrate Neomysis integer (Crustacea, Mysidacea) was used since 2004 as an alternative model for the partial replacement of vertebrate animals in metabolisation studies with illegal growth promotors and veterinary drugs, e.g. boldenone. The present study evaluates the metabolic capacity of other invertebrates, the brine shrimp Artemia franciscana and maggots of the greenbottle fly Lucilia sericata. The first results indicate that maggots of L. sericata are able to convert phytosterols and -stanols, nowadays in substantial amounts added to animal feed, into androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD), the precursor of boldenone, at a yield of 0.10-0.14% (p<0.001, significance compared to endogenous excretion of maggots) but not to boldenone itself. Furthermore, beta-testosterone, an endogenous hormone, was transformed into androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (AED), ADD and beta-boldenone at a significant (p<0.001, significance compared to endogenous excretion of maggots) yield of circa 13%, 0.80% and 2.2%, respectively. In future studies these results are of value to further evaluate the use of maggots of L. sericata as an invertebrate model in metabolisation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Verheyden
- Research Group Veterinary Public Health and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Chemical Analysis and Parasitology, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Nielen MWF, Lasaroms JJP, Essers ML, Sanders MB, Heskamp HH, Bovee TFH, van Rhijn JH, Groot MJ. The ultimate veal calf reference experiment: Hormone residue analysis data obtained by gas and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 586:30-4. [PMID: 17386693 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2006.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2006] [Revised: 07/11/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A lifetime controlled reference experiment has been performed using 42 veal calves, 21 males and 21 females which were fed and housed according to European regulations and common veterinary practice. During the experiment feed, water, urine and hair were sampled and feed intake and growth were monitored. Thus for the first time residue analysis data were obtained from guaranteed lifetime-untreated animals. The analysis was focused on the natural hormones estradiol and testosterone and their metabolites, on 17beta- and 17alpha-nortestosterone, on 17beta- and 17alpha-boldenone and androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD), and carried out by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS), an estrogen bioassay and liquid chromatography (LC) MS/MS. Feed, water and hair samples were negative for the residues tested. Female calf urines showed occasionally low levels of 17alpha-estradiol and 17alpha-testosterone. On one particular sampling day male veal calf urines showed very high levels of 17alpha-testosterone (up to 1000 ng mL(-1)), accompanied by lower levels of estrone and 17beta-testosterone. Despite these extreme levels of natural testosterone, 17beta-boldenone was never detected in the same urine samples; even 17alpha-boldenone and ADD were only occasionally beyond CCalpha (maximum levels 2.7 ng mL(-1)). The data from this unique experiment provide a set of reference values for steroid hormones in calf urine and demonstrate that 17beta-boldenone is not a naturally occurring compound in urine samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel W F Nielen
- RIKILT Institute of Food Safety, P.O. Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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