Protecting sport from steroid doping
EU-funded project SGLC/MS sought to explore new methods for the detection of anabolic steroids (AAS) by creating a network of collaborating laboratories from across the EU. The new methods centre on the use of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for the timely and reliable detection of anabolic steroids. Currently used methods are time-consuming and might be prone to specific errors, especially when polar AAS are being tested for. Researchers at the University of Helsinki aimed to develop and validate a new screening method for the detection of twelve major AAS by-products in urine. Mass spectrometry detection methodology was combined with electrospray ionisation for optimum specificity. Overall, the new approach was validated with respect to specificity, accuracy and precision. The main issue facing researchers is the likelihood that endogenic compounds in urine limit the applicability of the method. It was observed that pure-solvent-based standards produced limits of detection one to two orders of magnitude lower than those produced by urine samples thus implying internal sample limitations. The need for higher degrees of accuracy, speed and specificity in the field of doping control is expected to push these applications forward in the near future. The result is likely to be a viable business opportunity for those companies already active in the pharmaceutical/diagnostics arena.