The article reviews methods for detecting protein drugs in doping control, suggesting improvements for better identification.
The detection of protein drugs in doping control samples is associated with numerous challenges as not only a sufficient analytical sensitivity but also unambiguous identification and differentiation from endogenous analogues have to be ensured. Moreover, the structural complexity of proteins in general and, especially, when post-translational modifications such as glycosylations are present, necessitates the use of sophisticated technologies as for instance immunoassays and liquid chromatography interfaced with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Consequently, it is of utmost importance to continuously improve the existing sports drug testing assays and also search for novel/improved biomarkers indicative of protein doping.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Walpurgis et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: