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Agilent Technologies honors German researcher with 2006 Manfred Donike Award for new doping-control technology

15 Sep 2006 - Agilent Technologies Inc. announced that it has presented its 2006 Manfred Donike Award for scientific excellence in doping control to Maxie Kohler, a researcher at the Institute of Biochemistry at the German Sport University in Cologne, Germany. Kohler was honored for her research into the molecular mechanisms by which athletes metabolize 4-hydroxyandrostenedione and 4-hydroxytestosterone substances.
 
Agilent sponsors this annual award, first presented in 1997, to recognize distinguished scientific contributions in the field of sports medicine. Award winners are scientists who exemplify the spirit and scientific leadership of doping-control pioneer Manfred Donike and whose contributions significantly advance the cause of fairness in sports competition. The award consists of a medallion and a cash prize of 3,500 euros.
 
Before assuming her present position at the Institute of Biochemistry at the German Sport University, Kohler received her master's degree in biology at Cologne University where her majors included biochemistry, physiology and organic chemistry. While earning her degree, she gathered practical experience at the Anti-Doping Center using gas chromatography mass spectrometry to analyze dietary supplements for the presence of anabolic steroids. Her work included the synthesis of reference compounds and metabolites of various substances used by athletes to illegally enhance performance; the foundation of her work focused on androstenedione and testosterone substances.