Advances in Analytical Methodologies for Anti-Doping Control: From Sample Preparation to Detection

Anti-doping science is driven by the need to produce undeniable and irrefutable technical and scientific results. Consequently, analytical methodologies must continually evolve to address new analytical challenges and the emergence of novel performance-enhancing drugs, ensuring high sensitivity and selectivity while minimizing or eliminating potential interferents, all in compliance with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) requirements. Furthermore, modern analytical practice must align with principles of environmental stewardship, emphasizing the development of greener and more sustainable methods that meet contemporary environmental and sustainability guidelines. This Research Topic calls on the global analytical chemistry and toxicology communities to bring together cutting-edge contributions that strengthen the technical and scientific capabilities of anti-doping laboratories worldwide. We welcome high-quality submissions focusing on modern and innovative analytical methodologies across multiple stages of antidoping analysis. Topics may include new sample preparation techniques, such as microextraction approaches, miniaturized workflows, and dried matrix technologies, alongside advanced chromatographic and mass spectrometric detection. Submissions discussing the development, optimization, and validation of analytical methods for WADA-listed prohibited substances are particularly encouraged, as are studies addressing the detection of emerging, designer, and structurally novel doping agents. This Research Topic also recognizes the increasing importance of environmental responsibility in laboratory science. It highlights the application of Green Analytical Chemistry and Sustainable Analytical Methodologies to anti-doping workflows. We therefore welcome studies aligned with these principles, including, but not limited to, solvent-reduced approaches, low sample consumption, waste minimization, user-friendly and miniaturized workflows, high-throughput strategies, energy-efficient methods, product reuse, and responsible analytical practices. As a global goal, this Research Topic aims to foster the development of innovative analytical strategies that strengthen global anti-doping efforts and reinforce the integrity of competitive sport, bringing together scientific innovation with environmental and social responsibility. We invite the scientific community, including researchers, method developers, and laboratory professionals, to contribute their most innovative work and help shape the future of antidoping control. Submissions are encouraged in the following key areas: • Development and validation of modern analytical methods for WADA-listed substances • Innovations in sample preparation for Anti-Doping analysis • Green Analytical Chemistry and sustainability in Anti-Doping analytical methodologies • Detection of emerging and designer doping agents Topic editors: Carlos Almeida, Samir Ahmad, N.R. Neng Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80907/advances-in-analytical-methodologies-for-anti-doping-control-from-sample-preparation-to-detection