Detecting 'doping' in urine in just a few seconds

Scientists are developing a new technique for urine testing to quickly detect steroids banned for sport use.

In the face of the widespread use of doping agents in sports competitions, scientists in Indiana (USA) and China are building a new way to identify substances. Urinary steroids are faster and more effective.

Using just 1 drop of urine, this new method is able to accurately identify steroids in just a few seconds.(Photo: Zheng Ouyang / Purdue University)

Dr. Zheng Ouyang, of Purdue University (USA), and his colleagues have developed a new steroid testing method, which combines two techniques of ionization with desorption electrospray ionization - DESI) and measurement of tandem mass spectrometry.

In laboratory studies, experts analyzed urine samples using this method to detect the presence of any small amount of seven different types of steroids. According to the research team, only 1 drop of urine is needed, this new method is able to accurately identify steroids in just a few seconds.

According to experts, the fact that professional athletes use substances that are forbidden to strengthen muscles and gain an advantage in competition is an ongoing reality in sports such as athletics, baseball, and soccer. kick and bike racing.

Currently, although there are effective ways to detect the presence of banned steroids in the urine, these techniques often take a long time and the preparation of the test is often quite confusing.

This study will be published in the November 1, 2007 issue of Analytical Chemistry.

Quang Thinh