New Method Detects GHRP-2 and Metabolites in Human Urine
Determination of growth hormone secretagogue pralmorelin (GHRP-2) and its metabolite in human urine by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.
Background
The synthetic peptide GHRP-2 (Pralmorelin) is a potent growth hormone secretagogue, meaning it stimulates the release of growth hormone. It is often abused in sports for its perceived performance-enhancing and muscle-building effects, leading to unfair advantages. Detecting its presence and that of its metabolites in biological samples is therefore crucial for anti-doping efforts globally. Current detection methods may lack the necessary sensitivity or specificity, or struggle with comprehensive metabolite identification, making it difficult to confirm illicit use definitively. This study aimed to develop a highly sensitive and specific analytical method for detecting GHRP-2 and its metabolites in human urine.