Journal of Sports Medicine & Doping Studies

This paper investigates the intricate molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the function and regulation of opioid receptors, with a particular focus on their implications in drug addiction and pain management within the realm of sports. Opioid receptors play a crucial role in mediating the effects of endogenous opioids as well as exogenous opioids, such as prescription painkillers or illicit drugs, like heroin. The interplay between these receptors and their ligands in the central nervous system contributes to both the rewarding effects of opioids and the development of addiction. Recent advancements in molecular biology and epigenetics have shed light on the complex mechanisms that modulate opioid receptor expression and function. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, have been identified as critical regulators of opioid receptor gene expression. Moreover, these epigenetic modifications can be influenced by environmental factors, such as chronic pain or drug exposure, and may contribute to the individual variability observed in opioid responses and susceptibility to addiction.

Maintaining proper nutrition is essential for optimal performance in high-performance sport. However, ensuring consistent nutritional adherence among athletes can be challenging. This study aimed to explore athlete perspectives on the enablers and barriers to nutritional adherence in high-performance sport. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a diverse group of elite athletes from various sports disciplines. Thematic analysis was employed to identify common themes related to nutritional adherence. The findings revealed several key enablers of nutritional adherence, including personalized nutrition plans, access to expert guidance, peer support, and convenient access to nutritious food options. Conversely, several barriers to nutritional adherence were identified, such as conflicting information, limited time and resources, travel and competition demands, and social pressures. Understanding athlete perspectives on these enablers and barriers is crucial for developing effective strategies to promote nutritional adherence in high-performance sport. Coaches, nutritionists, and support staff can utilize these insights to tailor interventions and provide the necessary resources and support to enhance athletes' nutritional practices, thereby optimizing their performance and overall well-being.

Indomethacin, a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been shown to potentially impact steroid metabolism, leading to implications for endocrine disruption and urinary steroid profiling in anti-doping analyses. This abstract presents a summary of the effects of indomethacin on steroid metabolism and its broader implications. Studies investigating the influence of indomethacin on steroid-metabolizing enzymes have demonstrated alterations in enzymatic activity, which can disrupt the normal balance of steroid hormones in the body. Consequently, these disruptions can have implications for urinary steroid profiling, potentially leading to false-positive or false-negative results in anti-doping testing. Understanding the effects of indomethacin on steroid metabolism is crucial for accurate interpretation of urinary steroid profiles in antidoping analyses and for identifying potential endocrine disruption in individuals using the medication. Further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and long-term consequences of indomethacin-induced effects on steroid metabolism and to develop strategies to mitigate the confounding effects of indomethacin in anti-doping analyses.

Acute traumatic musculoskeletal pain is a common occurrence in athletes, often leading to significant functional impairment and delayed return to sports activities. Over the years, there have been substantial advancements in pharmacological treatment options aimed at managing pain and expediting recovery in athletes. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in pharmacotherapy for acute traumatic musculoskeletal pain in athletes. The review encompasses various classes of medications, including Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, muscle relaxants, and emerging therapies, such as regenerative medicine and neuromodulators. Additionally, the review explores the efficacy, safety, and potential limitations of these pharmacological interventions, along with their implications for optimizing athletic performance and minimizing the risk of re-injury. By shedding light on the latest advancements in pharmacotherapy, this review aims to contribute to the on-going efforts in enhancing pain management strategies and promoting successful recovery in athletes.