Detection of rEPO using Dried Blood Spot (DBS)
This clinical study is investigating a simple and practical way to test blood using dried blood spots. The researchers want to find out if a small finger-prick sample can accurately detect rEPO (recombinant erythropoietin), a lab-made version of a natural hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Traditional blood tests usually require a needle in a vein to fill several vials, which must be kept cold and handled carefully. Dried blood spot testing involves placing a few drops of blood onto a special paper card and letting them dry. This technique is less painful, cheaper, and much easier to store and transport. The trial is open to healthy adult volunteers of any gender aged 18 and over. While taking part will not directly treat any illness, it helps scientists develop better, simpler testing methods for medicine and anti-doping programmes in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Erythropoietin, or EPO, is a natural hormone produced by the kidneys that tells your body to make red blood cells. Doctors sometimes prescribe a lab-made version, called rEPO, to treat severe anaemia in people with kidney failure or cancer. Because rEPO boosts stamina by carrying more oxygen to the muscles, it is also monitored closely in professional sports to prevent doping.
At present, testing for substances like rEPO usually involves taking blood from a vein with a needle and syringe. These liquid blood samples need to be kept cold, transported quickly, and processed by trained staff. This can be costly and difficult, especially in remote areas or outside of major hospitals.
This study evaluates 'dried blood spot' testing as a modern alternative. With this method, a tiny drop of blood from a simple finger prick is collected on special absorbent paper and allowed to dry. These dry samples do not spoil easily and can be mailed in a normal envelope to a laboratory.
By testing this method in healthy volunteers, researchers hope to confirm whether dried blood spots are just as reliable and sensitive as standard blood draws. If successful, this research could make future blood monitoring much simpler, cheaper, and far less uncomfortable for patients and athletes alike.
Key takeaways
- The trial evaluates a finger-prick blood test to detect rEPO.
- Dried blood spot tests are simpler, less painful, and easier to transport than regular blood samples.
- Open to healthy adult volunteers aged 18 and older of any gender.
- Involvement is short-term and involves minimal discomfort.
- Participation is completely voluntary and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is looking for healthy adult volunteers. Men and women aged 18 and over are welcome to apply.
Because this is an early-stage research study looking at baseline testing techniques, participants need to be in good general health. People with significant ongoing medical conditions, particularly those affecting the blood, kidneys, or immune system, will usually not be eligible.
A member of the research team will carry out standard health checks to make sure taking part is completely safe for you before you are enrolled.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am at least 18 years old.
- I consider myself to be in good general health.
- I do not have any serious blood disorders or chronic illnesses.
- I am comfortable having a finger-prick blood test.
- I am able to attend appointments at the study clinic.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study typically involves one or two short visits to a clinic or research facility. First, you will meet with the research team to review the study details, ask any questions, and give your written consent.
During your appointment, a healthcare professional will clean your fingertip and use a small, sterile lancet to collect a few drops of blood onto a test card. In some cases, a small standard blood sample may also be taken from your vein so scientists can compare the results. The team will explain in advance whether any test doses of rEPO or dummy substances are given as part of the trial.
Visits are usually brief, lasting between 30 minutes to a couple of hours. Your involvement is typically short-term, lasting from a single day up to a few weeks depending on the exact testing schedule.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
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Common questions
What is a dried blood spot test?
It is a testing method where a small drop of blood from a finger prick is blotted onto a special paper card, allowed to dry, and then sent to a lab for analysis.
Does the test hurt?
You will feel a quick, mild prick on your fingertip, very similar to the test people with diabetes use to check their blood sugar. Any discomfort usually fades in seconds.
Will I receive any medication in this study?
The study team will explain the exact protocol to you before you agree to join. Some phases may only test blood collection methods, while others may involve a small, controlled dose of rEPO.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes. You can withdraw your consent and leave the study at any point, for any reason, without it affecting your regular healthcare.
Will my travel expenses be covered?
Many Phase 1 healthy volunteer studies cover reasonable travel costs or offer a small payment for your time. The research team will provide full details before you sign up.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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