Growth Hormone (HGH) - Detection

Detection of HGH Doping: Isoform Method

HGH Isoform Method (Christian Strasburger Method): An effective method for detecting HGH was first presented by Strasburger et al. in 1999. In this method, the concentration of 22 kD growth hormone (molecular weight 22,000, 22 kD) is determined relative to the sum of all growth hormone isoforms produced in the pituitary gland (see references below).

Since genetically engineered HGH consists solely of HGH with a molecular weight of 22 kD, the 22 kD fraction increases significantly after HGH administration compared to the sum of all growth hormone isomers. This makes it possible to distinguish between doping use and endogenous production. During natural stimulation of HGH production (such as after physical exertion), all growth hormone variants are produced in increased amounts and released into the blood. The ratio of 22 kD to the total pituitary growth hormones remains relatively constant. 

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Detection of doping with HGH: Marker method

HGH marker method (Peter Sönksen method): Another method for detecting the use of recombinant HGH, which determines indirect parameters, was developed as early as 2000 by Sönksen et al. as part of the “GH-2000” project funded by the EU and the IOC.

The test, which measures the parameters IGF-1 and precollagen III, was first approved by WADA for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

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