Whispers in the Blood: Leveraging MicroRNAs for Unveiling Autologous Blood Doping in Athletes

Abstract

The prevalence of autologous blood transfusions (ABTs) presents a formidable challenge in maintaining fair competition in sports, as it significantly enhances hemoglobin mass and oxygen capacity. In recognizing ABT as a prohibited form of doping, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) mandates stringent detection methodologies. While current methods effectively identify homologous erythrocyte transfusions, a critical gap persists in detecting autologous transfusions. The gold standard practice of longitudinally monitoring hematological markers exhibits promise but is encumbered by limitations. Despite its potential, instances of blood doping often go undetected due to the absence of definitive verification processes. Moreover, some cases remain unpenalized due to conservative athlete-sanctioning approaches. This gap underscores the imperative need for a more reliable and comprehensive detection method capable of unequivocally differentiating autologous transfusions, addressing the challenges faced in accurately identifying such prohibited practices. The development of an advanced detection methodology is crucial to uphold the integrity of anti-doping measures, effectively identifying and penalizing instances of autologous blood transfusion. This, in turn, safeguards the fairness and equality essential to competitive sports. Our review tackles this critical gap by harnessing the potential of microRNAs in ABT doping detection. We aim to summarize alterations in the total microRNA profiles of erythrocyte concentrates during storage and explore the viability of observing these changes post-transfusion. This innovative approach opens avenues for anti-doping technologies and commercialization, positioning it as a cornerstone in the ongoing fight against doping in sports and beyond. The significance of developing a robust detection method cannot be overstated, as it ensures the credibility of anti-doping efforts and promotes a level playing field for all athletes.

Keywords: autologous blood doping; biomarker detection; extracellular vesicles; microRNAs.

Figure 1

Untargeted/targeted metabolomics for the discovery of doping biomarkers.