1
|
Drummer DJ, McNiff JL, Howard EE, Gwin JA, Carrigan CT, Murphy NE, Wilson MA, Michalak J, Ryan BJ, McClung JP, Pasiakos SM, Margolis LM. Exogenous erythropoietin increases hematological status, fat oxidation, and aerobic performance in males following prolonged strenuous training. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e16038. [PMID: 38757249 PMCID: PMC11099744 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.16038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of EPO on hemoglobin (Hgb) and hematocrit (Hct), time trial (TT) performance, substrate oxidation, and skeletal muscle phenotype throughout 28 days of strenuous exercise. Eight males completed this longitudinal controlled exercise and feeding study using EPO (50 IU/kg body mass) 3×/week for 28 days. Hgb, Hct, and TT performance were assessed PRE and on Days 7, 14, 21, and 27 of EPO. Rested/fasted muscle obtained PRE and POST EPO were analyzed for gene expression, protein signaling, fiber type, and capillarization. Substrate oxidation and glucose turnover were assessed during 90-min of treadmill load carriage (LC; 30% body mass; 55 ± 5% V̇O2peak) exercise using indirect calorimetry, and 6-6-[2H2]-glucose PRE and POST. Hgb and Hct increased, and TT performance improved on Days 21 and 27 compared to PRE (p < 0.05). Energy expenditure, fat oxidation, and metabolic clearance rate during LC increased (p < 0.05) from PRE to POST. Myofiber type, protein markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, and capillarization were unchanged PRE to POST. Transcriptional regulation of mitochondrial activity and fat metabolism increased from PRE to POST (p < 0.05). These data indicate EPO administration during 28 days of strenuous exercise can enhance aerobic performance through improved oxygen carrying capacity, whole-body and skeletal muscle fat metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devin J. Drummer
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and EducationBelcampMarylandUSA
| | - Julie L. McNiff
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
- Combat Feeding DivisionU.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM)NatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Emily E. Howard
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jess A. Gwin
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Christopher T. Carrigan
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Nancy E. Murphy
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Marques A. Wilson
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Julia Michalak
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and EducationBelcampMarylandUSA
| | - Benjamin J. Ryan
- Thermal and Mountain Medicine DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - James P. McClung
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| | - Stefan M. Pasiakos
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of HealthU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Lee M. Margolis
- Military Nutrition DivisionU.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental MedicineNatickMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Webb KL, Gorman EK, Morkeberg OH, Klassen SA, Regimbal RJ, Wiggins CC, Joyner MJ, Hammer SM, Senefeld JW. The relationship between hemoglobin and [Formula: see text]: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292835. [PMID: 37824583 PMCID: PMC10569622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is widespread agreement about the key role of hemoglobin for oxygen transport. Both observational and interventional studies have examined the relationship between hemoglobin levels and maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) in humans. However, there exists considerable variability in the scientific literature regarding the potential relationship between hemoglobin and [Formula: see text]. Thus, we aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the diverse literature and examine the relationship between hemoglobin levels (hemoglobin concentration and mass) and [Formula: see text] (absolute and relative [Formula: see text]) among both observational and interventional studies. METHODS A systematic search was performed on December 6th, 2021. The study procedures and reporting of findings followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Article selection and data abstraction were performed in duplicate by two independent reviewers. Primary outcomes were hemoglobin levels and [Formula: see text] values (absolute and relative). For observational studies, meta-regression models were performed to examine the relationship between hemoglobin levels and [Formula: see text] values. For interventional studies, meta-analysis models were performed to determine the change in [Formula: see text] values (standard paired difference) associated with interventions designed to modify hemoglobin levels or [Formula: see text]. Meta-regression models were then performed to determine the relationship between a change in hemoglobin levels and the change in [Formula: see text] values. RESULTS Data from 384 studies (226 observational studies and 158 interventional studies) were examined. For observational data, there was a positive association between absolute [Formula: see text] and hemoglobin levels (hemoglobin concentration, hemoglobin mass, and hematocrit (P<0.001 for all)). Prespecified subgroup analyses demonstrated no apparent sex-related differences among these relationships. For interventional data, there was a positive association between the change of absolute [Formula: see text] (standard paired difference) and the change in hemoglobin levels (hemoglobin concentration (P<0.0001) and hemoglobin mass (P = 0.006)). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that [Formula: see text] values are closely associated with hemoglobin levels among both observational and interventional studies. Although our findings suggest a lack of sex differences in these relationships, there were limited studies incorporating females or stratifying results by biological sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin L. Webb
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Ellen K. Gorman
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Olaf H. Morkeberg
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Stephen A. Klassen
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Riley J. Regimbal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Chad C. Wiggins
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Joyner
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Shane M. Hammer
- Department of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Jonathon W. Senefeld
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sutehall S, Malinsky F, Shurlock J, Wang G, Bosch A, Pitsiladis YP. Whole-Blood and Peripheral Mononuclear Cell Transcriptional Response to Prolonged Altitude Exposure in Well-Trained Runners. Clin J Sport Med 2023; 33:e135-e144. [PMID: 37656978 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEpo) abuse by athletes threatens the integrity of sport. Due to the overlap in physiological response to rHuEpo and altitude exposure, it remains difficult to differentiate changes in hematological variables caused by rHuEpo or altitude, and therefore, other molecular methods to enhance anti-doping should be explored. OBJECTIVE To identify the hematological and transcriptomic response to prolonged altitude exposure typical of practices used by elite athletes. DESIGN Longitudinal study. SETTING University of Cape Town and Altitude Training Centre in Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTION Fourteen well-trained athletes sojourned to an altitude training camp in Sululta, Ethiopia (∼2400-2500 m above sea level) for 27 days. Blood samples were taken before arrival, 24 hours, and 9, 16, and 24 days after arrival at altitude in addition to 24 hours and 6, 13, and 27 days upon return to sea level. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and reticulocyte percentage. The transcriptomic response in whole blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were analyzed using gene expression microarrays. RESULTS A unique set of 29 and 10 genes were identified to be commonly expressed at every altitude time point in whole blood and PBMC, respectively. There were no genes identified upon return to sea level in whole blood, and only one gene within PBMC. CONCLUSIONS The current study has identified a series of unique genes that can now be integrated with genes previously validated for rHuEpo abuse, thereby enabling the differentiation of rHuEpo from altitude exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Sutehall
- Division of Physiological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Fernanda Malinsky
- Centre for Stress and Age-Related Disease, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Guan Wang
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Bosch
- Centre for Exercise Sciences and Sports Medicine, FIMS Collaborating Centre of Sports Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Yannis P Pitsiladis
- Centre for Stress and Age-Related Disease, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Centre for Exercise Sciences and Sports Medicine, FIMS Collaborating Centre of Sports Medicine, Rome, Italy
- European Federation of Sports Medicine Associations (EFSMA), Lausanne, Switzerland; and
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Breenfeldt Andersen A, Graae J, Bejder J, Bonne TC, Seier S, Debertin M, Eibye K, Hostrup M, Nordsborg NB. Microdoses of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin Enhance Time Trial Performance in Trained Males and Females. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:311-321. [PMID: 36317927 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the effects of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) administration on exercise endurance, maximal aerobic performance, and total hemoglobin mass (tHb). We hypothesized that frequent, small intravenous injections of epoetin β would increase time trial performance, peak oxygen uptake (V̇O 2peak ), and tHb in both males and females. METHODS We included 48 healthy, recreational to trained males ( n = 24, mean ± SD V̇O 2peak = 55 ± 5 mL O 2 ·kg -1 ⋅min -1 ) and females ( n = 24; V̇O 2peak of 46 ± 4 mL O 2 ·kg -1 ⋅min -1 ) in a counterbalanced, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study design stratified by sex. Time trial performance, V̇O 2peak , and tHb were determined before and after intravenous injections of either rHuEPO (9 IU·kg bw -1 epoetin β) or saline (0.9% NaCl) three times weekly for 4 wk. RESULTS A time-treatment effect ( P < 0.05) existed for time trial performance. Within the rHuEPO group, mean power output increased by 4.1% ± 4.2% ( P < 0.001). Likewise, a time-treatment effect ( P < 0.001) existed for V̇O 2peak , where the rHuEPO group improved V̇O 2peak and peak aerobic power by 4.2% ± 6.1% ( P < 0.001) and 2.9% ± 4.0% ( P < 0.01), respectively. A time-treatment effect ( P < 0.001) existed for tHb, where the rHuEPO group increased tHb by 6.7% ± 3.4% ( P < 0.001). A main effect of "sex" alone was also evident ( P < 0.001), but no sex-specific interactions were found. No changes were observed in the placebo group for mean power output, V̇O 2peak , peak aerobic power, or tHb. CONCLUSIONS Microdoses with intravenous rHuEPO provide a sufficient erythropoietic stimuli to augment tHb and enhance aerobic-dominated performance in both trained males and females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan Graae
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Jacob Bejder
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Thomas C Bonne
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Søren Seier
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Maren Debertin
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Kasper Eibye
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Morten Hostrup
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Nikolai B Nordsborg
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nijholt KT, Meems LMG, Ruifrok WPT, Maass AH, Yurista SR, Pavez-Giani MG, Mahmoud B, Wolters AHG, van Veldhuisen DJ, van Gilst WH, Silljé HHW, de Boer RA, Westenbrink BD. The erythropoietin receptor expressed in skeletal muscle is essential for mitochondrial biogenesis and physiological exercise. Pflugers Arch 2021; 473:1301-1313. [PMID: 34142210 PMCID: PMC8302562 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-021-02577-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a haematopoietic hormone that regulates erythropoiesis, but the EPO-receptor (EpoR) is also expressed in non-haematopoietic tissues. Stimulation of the EpoR in cardiac and skeletal muscle provides protection from various forms of pathological stress, but its relevance for normal muscle physiology remains unclear. We aimed to determine the contribution of the tissue-specific EpoR to exercise-induced remodelling of cardiac and skeletal muscle. Baseline phenotyping was performed on left ventricle and m. gastrocnemius of mice that only express the EpoR in haematopoietic tissues (EpoR-tKO). Subsequently, mice were caged in the presence or absence of a running wheel for 4 weeks and exercise performance, cardiac function and histological and molecular markers for physiological adaptation were assessed. While gross morphology of both muscles was normal in EpoR-tKO mice, mitochondrial content in skeletal muscle was decreased by 50%, associated with similar reductions in mitochondrial biogenesis, while mitophagy was unaltered. When subjected to exercise, EpoR-tKO mice ran slower and covered less distance than wild-type (WT) mice (5.5 ± 0.6 vs. 8.0 ± 0.4 km/day, p < 0.01). The impaired exercise performance was paralleled by reductions in myocyte growth and angiogenesis in both muscle types. Our findings indicate that the endogenous EPO-EpoR system controls mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle. The reductions in mitochondrial content were associated with reduced exercise capacity in response to voluntary exercise, supporting a critical role for the extra-haematopoietic EpoR in exercise performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten T Nijholt
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Laura M G Meems
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Willem P T Ruifrok
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander H Maass
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Salva R Yurista
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mario G Pavez-Giani
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Belend Mahmoud
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk H G Wolters
- Department of Cell Biology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J van Veldhuisen
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wiek H van Gilst
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Herman H W Silljé
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rudolf A de Boer
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - B Daan Westenbrink
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, HPC AB31, 9700 RB, P.O. Box 30.001, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
An Abductive Inference Approach to Assess the Performance-Enhancing Effects of Drugs Included on the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List. Sports Med 2021; 51:1353-1376. [PMID: 33811295 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01450-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Some have questioned the evidence for performance-enhancing effects of several substances included on the World Anti-Doping Agency's Prohibited List due to the divergent or inconclusive findings in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, inductive statistical inference based on RCTs-only may result in biased conclusions because of the scarcity of studies, inter-study heterogeneity, too few outcome events, or insufficient power. An abductive inference approach, where the body of evidence is evaluated beyond considerations of statistical significance, may serve as a tool to assess the plausibility of performance-enhancing effects of substances by also considering observations and facts not solely obtained from RCTs. Herein, we explored the applicability of an abductive inference approach as a tool to assess the performance-enhancing effects of substances included on the Prohibited List. We applied an abductive inference approach to make inferences on debated issues pertaining to the ergogenic effects of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), beta2-agonists and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), and extended the approach to more controversial drug classes where RCTs are limited. We report that an abductive inference approach is a useful tool to assess the ergogenic effect of substances included on the Prohibited List-particularly for substances where inductive inference is inconclusive. Specifically, a systematic abductive inference approach can aid researchers in assessing the effects of doping substances, either by leading to suggestions of causal relationships or identifying the need for additional research.
Collapse
|
7
|
Trinh KV, Diep D, Chen KJQ, Huang L, Gulenko O. Effect of erythropoietin on athletic performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2020; 6:e000716. [PMID: 32411382 PMCID: PMC7213874 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2019-000716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Athletes have attempted to glean the ergogenic benefits of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) since it became available in the 1980s. However, there is limited consensus in the literature regarding its true performance-enhancing effects. In fact, some studies suggest there is no conclusive evidence; therefore, it is necessary to evaluate and quantify the strength of the evidence. Objective To determine the effects of erythropoietin on enhancing athletic performance. Design At least two independent reviewers conducted citation identification through abstract and full-text screening, and study selection, and extracted raw data on demographics, descriptions of interventions and all outcomes to predesigned abstraction forms. Outcomes were stratified by treatment periods and dosages. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and Cochrane Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Education (GRADE) scale. Where appropriate, quantitative analysis was performed. Data sources EMBASE, MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus were searched from their inception to January 2020. Eligibility criteria Trials that examined any enhancement in sport in healthy participants aged 18-65 using rHuEPO compared with placebo were included. Results Overall, there is low-to-moderate quality evidence suggesting rHuEPO may be more beneficial than placebo in enhancing haematological parameters, pulmonary measures, maximal power output and time to exhaustion independent of dosage. However, these improvements are almost exclusively seen during maximal exercise intensities, which may be less relevant to athletic competition conditions. Conclusion Due to heterogeneity among trials, more high-quality randomised controlled trials with larger sample sizes in conditions that mirror actual competition are needed to further elucidate these effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kien Vinh Trinh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dion Diep
- MD Program, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Le Huang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Heuberger JAAC, Cohen AF. Review of WADA Prohibited Substances: Limited Evidence for Performance-Enhancing Effects. Sports Med 2020; 49:525-539. [PMID: 30411235 PMCID: PMC6422964 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-018-1014-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The World Anti-Doping Agency is responsible for maintaining a Prohibited List that describes the use of substances and methods that are prohibited for athletes. The list currently contains 23 substance classes, and an important reason for the existence of this list is to prevent unfair competition due to pharmacologically enhanced performance. The aim of this review was to give an overview of the available evidence for performance enhancement of these substance classes. We searched the scientific literature through PubMed for studies and reviews evaluating the effects of substance classes on performance. Findings from double-blind, randomized controlled trials were considered as evidence for (the absence of) effects if they were performed in trained subjects measuring relevant performance outcomes. Only 5 of 23 substance classes show evidence of having the ability to enhance actual sports performance, i.e. anabolic agents, β2-agonists, stimulants, glucocorticoids and β-blockers. One additional class, growth hormone, has similar evidence but only in untrained subjects. The observed effects all relate to strength or sprint performance (and accuracy for β-blockers); there are no studies showing positive effects on reliable markers of endurance performance. For 11 classes, no well-designed studies are available, and, for the remaining six classes, there is evidence of an absence of a positive effect. In conclusion, for the majority of substance classes, no convincing evidence for performance enhancement is available, while, for the remaining classes, the evidence is based on a total of only 266 subjects from 11 studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam F Cohen
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Atkinson TS, Kahn MJ. Blood doping: Then and now. A narrative review of the history, science and efficacy of blood doping in elite sport. Blood Rev 2020; 39:100632. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2019.100632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
10
|
Heuberger JAAC, van Eenoo P, Rotmans JI, Gal P, Stuurman FE, Post TE, Daniels JMA, Ram H, de Hon O, Burggraaf J, Cohen AF. Sensitivity and specificity of detection methods for erythropoietin doping in cyclists. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:1290-1301. [PMID: 31232530 PMCID: PMC6790592 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is used as doping a substance. Anti‐doping efforts include urine and blood testing and monitoring the athlete biological passport (ABP). As data on the performance of these methods are incomplete, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of two common urine assays and the ABP. In a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial, 48 trained cyclists received a mean dose of 6000 IU rHuEPO (epoetin β) or placebo by weekly injection for eight weeks. Seven timed urine and blood samples were collected per subject. Urine samples were analyzed by sarcosyl‐PAGE and isoelectric focusing methods in the accredited DoCoLab in Ghent. A selection of samples, including any with false presumptive findings, underwent a second sarcosyl‐PAGE confirmation analysis. Hematological parameters were used to construct a module similar to the ABP and analyzed by two evaluators from an Athlete Passport Management Unit. Sensitivity of the sarcosyl‐PAGE and isoelectric focusing assays for the detection of erythropoietin abuse were 63.8% and 58.6%, respectively, with a false presumptive finding rate of 4.3% and 6%. None of the false presumptive findings tested positive in the confirmation analysis. Sensitivity was highest between 2 and 6 days after dosing, and dropped rapidly outside this window. Sensitivity of the ABP was 91.3%. Specificity of the urine assays was high; however, the detection window of rHuEPO was narrow, leading to questionable sensitivity. The ABP, integrating longitudinal data, is more sensitive, but there are still subjects that evade detection. Combining these methods might improve performance, but will not resolve all observed shortcomings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joris I Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Pim Gal
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Titiaan E Post
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands.,Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Johannes M A Daniels
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Herman Ram
- Anti-Doping Authority the Netherlands, Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands
| | - Olivier de Hon
- Anti-Doping Authority the Netherlands, Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands
| | - Jacobus Burggraaf
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands.,Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Adam F Cohen
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sgrò P, Sansone M, Sansone A, Romanelli F, Di Luigi L. Effects of erythropoietin abuse on exercise performance. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2018; 46:105-115. [PMID: 29113535 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2018.1402663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The present review provides a comprehensive overview on the erythropoietic and non-erythropoietic effects of rHuEpo on human sport performance, paying attention to quantifying numerically how rHuEpo affects exercise performance and describing physiological changes regarding the most important exercise variables. Much attention has been paid to treatment schedules, in particular, to assess the effects of microdoses of rHuEpo and the prolonged effects on sport performance following withdrawal. Moreover, the review takes into account non-erythropoietic ergogenic effects of rHuEpo, including cognitive benefits of rHuEpo. A significant increase in both Vo2max and maximal cycling power was evidenced in studies taken into account for this review. rHuEpo, administered at clinical dosage, may have significant effects on haematological values, maximal and submaximal physiological variables, whereas few reports show positive effects on exercise perfomance. However, the influence of micro-dose rHuEpo on endurance performance in athletes is still unclear and further studies are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Sgrò
- a Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology , Università degli Studi di Roma "Foro Italico" Piazza Lauro de Bosis , Rome , Italy
| | - Massimiliano Sansone
- b Department of Experimental Medicine , "Sapienza" Università di Roma , Rome , Italy
| | - Andrea Sansone
- b Department of Experimental Medicine , "Sapienza" Università di Roma , Rome , Italy
| | - Francesco Romanelli
- b Department of Experimental Medicine , "Sapienza" Università di Roma , Rome , Italy
| | - Luigi Di Luigi
- a Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology , Università degli Studi di Roma "Foro Italico" Piazza Lauro de Bosis , Rome , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Piety NZ, Reinhart WH, Stutz J, Shevkoplyas SS. Optimal hematocrit in an artificial microvascular network. Transfusion 2017; 57:2257-2266. [PMID: 28681482 DOI: 10.1111/trf.14213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher hematocrit increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood but also increases blood viscosity, thus decreasing blood flow through the microvasculature and reducing the oxygen delivery to tissues. Therefore, an optimal value of hematocrit that maximizes tissue oxygenation must exist. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS We used viscometry and an artificial microvascular network device to determine the optimal hematocrit in vitro. Suspensions of fresh red blood cells (RBCs) in plasma, normal saline, or a protein-containing buffer and suspensions of stored red blood cells (at Week 6 of standard hypothermic storage) in plasma with hematocrits ranging from 10 to 80% were evaluated. RESULTS For viscometry, optimal hematocrits were 10, 25.2, 31.9, 37.1, and 37.5% for fresh RBCs in plasma at shear rates of 3.2 or less, 11.0, 27.7, 69.5, and 128.5 inverse seconds. For the artificial microvascular network, optimal hematocrits were 51.1, 55.6, 59.2, 60.9, 62.3, and 64.6% for fresh RBCs in plasma and 46.4, 48.1, 54.8, 61.4, 65.7, and 66.5% for stored RBCs in plasma at pressures of 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 60 cm H2 O. CONCLUSION Although exact optimal hematocrit values may depend on specific microvascular architecture, our results suggest that the optimal hematocrit for oxygen delivery in the microvasculature depends on perfusion pressure. Therefore, anemia in chronic disorders may represent a beneficial physiological response to reduced perfusion pressure resulting from decreased heart function and/or vascular stenosis. Our results may help explain why a therapeutically increasing hematocrit in such conditions with RBC transfusion frequently leads to worse clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel Z Piety
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Julianne Stutz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Sergey S Shevkoplyas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Heuberger JAAC, Rotmans JI, Gal P, Stuurman FE, van 't Westende J, Post TE, Daniels JMA, Moerland M, van Veldhoven PLJ, de Kam ML, Ram H, de Hon O, Posthuma JJ, Burggraaf J, Cohen AF. Effects of erythropoietin on cycling performance of well trained cyclists: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. LANCET HAEMATOLOGY 2017; 4:e374-e386. [PMID: 28669689 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(17)30105-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substances that potentially enhance performance (eg, recombinant human erythropoietin [rHuEPO]) are considered doping and are therefore forbidden in sports; however, the scientific evidence behind doping is frequently weak. We aimed to determine the effects of rHuEPO treatment in well trained cyclists on maximal, submaximal, and race performance and on safety, and to present a model clinical study for doping research on other substances. METHODS We did this double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial at the Centre for Human Drug Research in Leiden (Netherlands). We enrolled healthy, well trained but non-professional male cyclists aged 18-50 years and randomly allocated (1:1) them to receive abdominal subcutaneous injections of rHuEPO (epoetin β; mean dose 6000 IU per week) or placebo (0·9% NaCl) for 8 weeks. Randomisation was stratified by age groups (18-34 years and 35-50 years), with a code generated by a statistician who was not masked to the study. The primary outcome was exercise performance, measured as maximal power output (Pmax), maximal oxygen consumption VO2 max, and gross efficiency in maximal exercise tests with 25 W increments per 5 min, as lactate threshold and ventilatory threshold 1 (VT1) and 2 (VT2) at submaximal levels during the maximal exercise test, and as mean power, VO2, and heart rate in the submaximal exercise tests at the highest mean power output for 45 min in a laboratory setting and in a race to the Mont Ventoux (France) summit, using intention-to-treat analyses. The trial is registered with the Dutch Trial Registry (Nederlands Trial Register), number NTR5643. FINDINGS Between March 7, 2016, and April 13, 2016, we randomly assigned 48 participants to the rHuEPO group (n=24) or the placebo group (n=24). Mean haemoglobin concentration (9·6 mmol/L vs 9·0 mmol/L [estimated difference 0·6, 95% CI 0·4 to 0·8]) and maximal power output (351·55 W vs 341·23 W [10·32, 3·47 to 17·17]), and VO2 max (60·121 mL/min per kg vs 57·415 mL/min per kg [2·707, 0·911 to 4·503]) in a maximal exercise test were higher in the rHuEPO group compared with the placebo group. Submaximal exercise test parameters mean power output (283·18 W vs 277·28 W [5·90, -0·87 to 12·67]) and VO2 (50·288 mL/min per kg vs 49·642 mL/min per kg [0·646, -1·307 to 2·600]) at day 46, and Mont Ventoux race times (1 h 40 min 32 s vs 1 h 40 min 15 s [0·3%, -8·3 to 9·6]) did not differ between groups. All adverse events were grade 1-2 and were similar between both groups. No events of grade 3 or worse were observed. INTERPRETATION Although rHuEPO treatment improved a laboratory test of maximal exercise, the more clinically relevant submaximal exercise test performance and road race performance were not affected. This study shows that clinical studies with doping substances can be done adequately and safely and are relevant in determining effects of alleged performance-enhancing drugs. FUNDING Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joris I Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Pim Gal
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Juliëtte van 't Westende
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands; Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Titiaan E Post
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands; Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Johannes M A Daniels
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Herman Ram
- Anti-Doping Authority of the Netherlands, Capelle aan de IJssel, Netherlands
| | - Olivier de Hon
- Anti-Doping Authority of the Netherlands, Capelle aan de IJssel, Netherlands
| | - Jelle J Posthuma
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jacobus Burggraaf
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands; Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Adam F Cohen
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
The hematocrit (Hct) determines the oxygen carrying capacity of blood, but also increases blood viscosity and thus flow resistance. From this dual role the concept of an optimum Hct for tissue oxygenation has been derived. Viscometric studies using the ratio Hct/blood viscosity at high shear rate showed an optimum Hct of 50-60% for red blood cell (RBC) suspensions in plasma. For the perfusion of an artificial microvascular network with 5-70μm channels the optimum Hct was 60-70% for high driving pressures. With lower shear rates or driving pressures the optimum Hct shifted towards lower values. In healthy, well trained athletes an increase of the Hct to supra-normal levels can increase exercise performance. These data with healthy individuals suggest that the optimum Hct for oxygen transport may be higher than the physiological range (35-40% in women, 39-50% in men). This is in contrast to clinical observations. Large clinical studies have repeatedly shown that a correction of anemia in a variety of disorders such as chronic kidney disease, heart failure, coronary syndrome, oncology, acute gastrointestinal bleeding, critical care, or surgery have better clinical outcomes when restrictive transfusion strategies are applied. Actual guidelines, therefore, recommend a transfusion threshold of 7-8 g/dL hemoglobin (Hct 20-24%) in stable, hospitalized patients. The discrepancy between the optimum Hct in health and disease may be due to factors such as decreased perfusion pressures (low cardiac output, vascular stenoses, change in vascular tone), endothelial cell dysfunction, leukocyte adhesion and others.
Collapse
|
15
|
Thevis M, Kuuranne T, Geyer H, Schänzer W. Annual banned-substance review: analytical approaches in human sports drug testing. Drug Test Anal 2017; 9:6-29. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- 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; Cologne Germany
| | - Tiia Kuuranne
- Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses; University Center of Legal Medicine; Genève and Lausanne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois and University of Lausanne Epalinges Switzerland
| | - Hans Geyer
- 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; Cologne Germany
| | - Wilhelm Schänzer
- Center for Preventive Doping Research - Institute of Biochemistry; German Sport University Cologne; Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6 50933 Cologne Germany
| |
Collapse
|