An incredible revelation to optimize performance comes from a recently discovered marine worm with remarkable oxygen-collecting abilities. Research led by Franck Zal claimed that the worm has developed a unique form of hemoglobin capable of absorbing oxygen at a rate 40 times higher than that of humans, as revealed by the researcher to L’Équipe.
The most intriguing aspect is the difficulty in easily tracking it. The French researcher founded a company to commercialize this substance for medical applications. Its uses are diverse, ranging from improving the oxygenation of transplanted organs to addressing periodontal issues. Moreover, there is potential to tackle serious issues in the field of transfusions. However, it is in this scenario that the question of possible doping arises.
Used since 2019
According to experts, the use of this substance began in 2019, but a method for detection has recently been developed. Skiing is pointed out as one of the first sports under suspicion, especially after its alleged use in the World Championship in Sweden three years ago. However, there are suspicions that it has also been used in cycling.
“We received contacts from athletes, teams, and aware people, that this molecule could be considered doping. It’s surprising because we ask ourselves: either they are completely stupid or they think we are naive,” commented Franck Zal in an interview with Radio Canada last year.
Tour de France team cyclist contacted Franck Zal
“A well-known cyclist, with a foreign name, whose team participates in the Tour de France, contacted me because he wanted some of the product,” added Zal to L’Equipe. The biologist is actively cooperating with the French Public Health Agency to increase understanding of his work.
Researcher Marc Kluscinszyski explained almost two years ago: “We need to update the biological passport because it deals with what happens in a red blood cell. These hemoglobins, however, provide hemoglobin outside the globular compartment, so blood control is completely bypassed.”