Effect of xenon and argon inhalation on erythropoiesis and steroidogenesis: a systematic review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundXenon and argon inhalation were included in the WADA Prohibited List in 2014 due to the reported positive effects on erythropoiesis and steroidogenesis occurs as a result of the use of these substances. Currently, xenon is on the WADA Prohibited List notable affecting erythropoiesis as a Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) activating agent. At the same time, argon inhalation was allowed again in 2019. Thus, the systematic review of studies supporting these notions is of interest.MethodsA thorough search for articles on the effects of xenon and argon inhalation on erythropoiesis and steroidogenesis, as well as their negative effects on human health and methods of their detection in body fluids was conducted. Pubmed, Google Scholar databases and the Cochrane Library were researched, as well as the special research section of the WADA website. The search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. All articles in English published between 2000 and 2021 were analyzed, as well as reference studies meeting the search criteria.ResultsAt present, there are only two publications in healthy human subjects evaluating the effects of xenon inhalation on erythropoiesis were found with no conclusive evidence of a positive effect on erythropoiesis. Both articles were published after 2014 when the gases were included on the WADA Prohibited List. Both articles had a high risk of bias. There were no studies on the effect of argon inhalation on erythropoiesis. No studies were found on the effect of xenon or argon inhalation on steroidogenesis in healthy subjects. No studies related to the effects of xenon or argon inhalation on erythropoiesis and steroidogenesis were found on the WADA website.ConclusionThere is still inconclusive evidence to support the administration of xenon and argon inhalations on erythropoiesis and steroidogenesis and their positive effects on health. Further research is needed to establish the effects of these gases. Additionally, improved communication between the anti-doping authorities and all key stakeholders is required to support the inclusion of various substances on the Prohibited List.