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Becam J, Pelissier-Alicot AL, Doudka N, Richez M, Solas C, Fabresse N. Validation of a non-targeted method devoted to identification and quantitation of toxicologically relevant compounds in plasma with HRMS. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2023; 1224:123739. [PMID: 37172558 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2023.123739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop and validate a simple method using liquid chromatography hyphenated to high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) allowing both the performance of a non-targeted screening and the simultaneous quantification of 29 compounds of interest in clinical and forensic toxicology. Extraction was done with QuEChERS salts and acetonitrile, after addition of internal standard to 200 μL of human plasma samples. The mass spectrometer was an Orbitrap, with a heated electrospray ionization (HESI) probe. The analyses were carried out in full scan experiment with a nominal resolving power of 60,000 FWHM within the 125-650 m/z mass range, followed by four cycles of data dependent analysis (DDA) with a mass resolution of 16,000 FWHM. The untargeted screening was evaluated using 132 compounds, mean limit of identification (LOI) was 8.8 ng/mL (min = 0.05 ng/mL, max = 500 ng/mL) and mean limit of detection (LOD) was 0.25 ng/mL (min = 0.05 ng/mL, max = 5 ng/mL). The method was linear in the 5 to 500 ng/mL range (0.5 to 50 ng/mL for cannabinoids, 6-acetylmorphine and buprenorphine) with correlation coefficients > 0.99, intra- and inter-day accuracy and precision were < 15% for all compounds. The method was successfully applied to 31 routine samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Becam
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264, rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | | | - Natalia Doudka
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264, rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | - Magali Richez
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264, rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | - Caroline Solas
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264, rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France
| | - Nicolas Fabresse
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology, La Timone University Hospital, 264, rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France; Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Economic and Social Sciences of Health and Medical Information Processing, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille, France.
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Herian M, Świt P. 25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:15-33. [PMID: 37115704 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2194907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. However, hallucinogens belonging to the group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) may produce high toxicity. NPS, due to their multi-receptors affinity, are extremely dangerous for the human body and mental health. An example of hallucinogens that have been lately responsible for many severe intoxications and deaths are 25X-NBOMes - N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic compounds with strong hallucinogenic properties. 25X-NBOMes exhibit a high binding affinity to serotonin receptors but also to dopamine, adrenergic and histamine receptors. Apart from their influence on perception, many case reports point out systemic and neurological poisoning with these compounds. In humans, the most frequent side effects are tachycardia, anxiety, hypertension and seizures. Moreover, preclinical studies confirm that 25X-NBOMes cause developmental impairments, cytotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and changes in behavior of animals. Metabolism of NBOMes seems to be very complex and involves many metabolic pathways. This fact may explain the observed high toxicity. In addition, many analytical methods have been applied in order to identify these compounds and their metabolites. The presented review summarized the current knowledge about 25X-NBOMes, especially in the context of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paweł Świt
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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3
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Montanari S, Davani L, Terenzi C, Maltoni M, Andrisano V, De Simone A, Ricci M. Fentanyl pharmacokinetics in blood of cancer patients by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2022; 219:114913. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2022.114913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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4
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Yang D, Zheng Q, Ahmed F, Parat MO, Tscharke BJ. A simple liquid extraction for simultaneous determination of 12 opioid ligands in plasma by LC-MS/MS. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2022; 14:1523-1528. [PMID: 35352730 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay01631h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are commonly used as analgesics to relieve chronic pain and have high abuse potential. Due to their strong potency and trace concentration in plasma, a robust analytical method is necessary for quantification in forensic and pharmacology fields. Hence, this study developed and validated a simple, rapid, and robust method for the simultaneous determination of 12 opioids and metabolites which were available legally by prescription or abused for non-medical purposes, in plasma samples by simple liquid extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We compared the extraction recovery of our sample pre-treatment to two other sample pre-treatments (namely QuEChERS and simplified QuEChERS) and showed that the method used in our study gave the highest recoveries. The method validation followed the European Medicines Agency guidelines, including selectivity, carryover, accuracy and precision, dilution integrity, matrix effect and freeze/thaw stability. This method's accuracy ranged from 85% to 115% with a precision less than 15%, within the acceptable range of the validation protocol. The lower limit of quantification of the method ranged between 0.05 μg L-1 and 0.38 μg L-1 among 12 opioids/metabolites. Stability was assessed, with all opioids observed as relatively stable at 0.5 μg L-1 and 5 μg L-1 levels under -20 °C and 25 °C storage conditions. In summary, the developed method has the potential to achieve simultaneous analysis for monitoring opioids in forensic and pain management regimens using a simple sample pre-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China.
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Qiuda Zheng
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Fahad Ahmed
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Marie-Odile Parat
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Tscharke
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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Novel Applications of Microextraction Techniques Focused on Biological and Forensic Analyses. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, major attention has been focused on microextraction procedures that allow high recovery of target analytes, regardless of the complexity of the sample matrices. The most used techniques included liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), solid-phase extraction (SPE), solid-phase microextraction (SPME), dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME), microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS), and fabric-phase sorptive extraction (FPSE). These techniques manifest a rapid development of sample preparation techniques in different fields, such as biological, environmental, food sciences, natural products, forensic medicine, and toxicology. In the biological and forensic fields, where a wide variety of drugs with different chemical properties are analyzed, the sample preparation is required to make the sample suitable for the instrumental analysis, which often includes gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass detectors or tandem mass detectors (MS/MS). In this review, we have focused our attention on the biological and forensic application of these innovative procedures, highlighting the major advantages and results that have been accomplished in laboratory and clinical practice.
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Goncalves R, Pelletier R, Couette A, Gicquel T, Le Daré B. Suitability of high-resolution mass spectrometry in analytical toxicology: Focus on drugs of abuse. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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7
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Vilca-Melendez S, Uthaug MV, Griffin JL. 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance: A Future Approach to the Metabolic Profiling of Psychedelics in Human Biofluids? Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:742856. [PMID: 34966300 PMCID: PMC8710695 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.742856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
While psychedelics may have therapeutic potential for treating mental health disorders such as depression, further research is needed to better understand their biological effects and mechanisms of action when considering the development of future novel therapy approaches. Psychedelic research could potentially benefit from the integration of metabonomics by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy which is an analytical chemistry-based approach that can measure the breakdown of drugs into their metabolites and their metabolic consequences from various biofluids. We have performed a systematic review with the primary aim of exploring published literature where 1H NMR analysed psychedelic substances including psilocin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), LSD derivatives, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and bufotenin. The second aim was to assess the benefits and limitations of 1H NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics as a tool in psychedelic research and the final aim was to explore potential future directions. We found that the most current use of 1H NMR in psychedelic research has been for the structural elucidation and analytical characterisation of psychedelic molecules and that no papers used 1H NMR in the metabolic profiling of biofluids, thus exposing a current research gap and the underuse of 1H NMR. The efficacy of 1H NMR spectroscopy was also compared to mass spectrometry, where both metabonomics techniques have previously shown to be appropriate for biofluid analysis in other applications. Additionally, potential future directions for psychedelic research were identified as real-time NMR, in vivo 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and 1H NMR studies of the gut microbiome. Further psychedelic studies need to be conducted that incorporate the use of 1H NMR spectroscopy in the analysis of metabolites both in the peripheral biofluids and in vivo to determine whether it will be an effective future approach for clinical and naturalistic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvana Vilca-Melendez
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malin V. Uthaug
- The Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Julian L. Griffin
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Thirteen Cases of Valeryl Fentanyl in Michigan: A Call for Expanding Opioid Testing. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2021; 42:367-372. [PMID: 34793410 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In this report, we describe 13 cases of drug overdose in Michigan in which valeryl fentanyl was found in postmortem blood. Valeryl fentanyl is a schedule I opioid that is rarely found in drug overdoses in the United States. Although little data exist on the mortality and morbidity associated with valeryl fentanyl, its molecular structure indicates that it would be less potent than fentanyl.When analyzing blood samples for valeryl fentanyl, samples from peripheral sites were sometimes negative for quantitative levels; however, samples from central sites in the same decedent were positive. This could indicate unique pharmacokinetics for valeryl fentanyl, which could have implications for other fentanyl analogs. Given the paucity of pharmacodynamic information, the prohibition of its use, the potential to buttress law enforcement efforts in monitoring drug trafficking trends, and to determine the efficacy of current regulations, laboratories should test for valeryl fentanyl. When testing for valeryl fentanyl, and likely other fentanyl analogs, the site of sample collection is important: central sources of blood are preferred to peripheral sources.
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Kamińska K, Świt P, Malek K. 2-(4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25I-NBOME): A Harmful Hallucinogen Review. J Anal Toxicol 2021; 44:947-956. [PMID: 32128596 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
NBOMes are N-benzylmethoxy derivatives of the 2C family compounds with N-2-methoxybenzyl moiety substituted by the methoxy group at the 2- and 5-position and the halogen group at the 4-position of the phenyl ring. These substances are a new class of potent serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist hallucinogens with potential harmful effects. The substitution with halogen of the already psychoactive phenethylamine produces a derivative (2C-I) with increased hallucinogenic effects. This class of hallucinogens has chemical structures very similar to natural hallucinogenic alkaloid mescaline and these are sold mainly via internet as a 'legal' alternative to other hallucinogenic drug-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). 25I-NBOMe is the first synthesized and one of the most common compound from NBOMes. Knowledge of pharmacological properties of 25I-NBOMe is very limited so far. There are only a few in vivo and in vitro so far published studies. The behavioral experiments are mainly related with the hallucinogenic effect of 25I-NBOMe while the in vitro studies concerning mainly the affinity for 5-HT2A receptors. The 25I-NBOMe Critical Review 2016 reported 51 non-fatal intoxications and 21 deaths associated with 25I-NBOMe across Europe. Case reports describe various toxic effects of 25I-NBOMe usage including tachycardia, hypertension, hallucinations, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury and death. The growing number of fatal and non-fatal intoxication cases indicates that 25I-NBOMe should be considered as a serious danger to public health. This review aims to present the current state of knowledge on pharmacological effects and chemical properties of 25I-NBOMe and to describe reported clinical cases and analytical methods available for identification of this agent in biological material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kamińska
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Bobrzynskiego 14, Krakow 30-348, Poland
| | - Paweł Świt
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Bobrzynskiego 14, Krakow 30-348, Poland
| | - Kamilla Malek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow 30-387, Poland
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Maurer HH. Hyphenated high-resolution mass spectrometry-the "all-in-one" device in analytical toxicology? Anal Bioanal Chem 2020; 413:2303-2309. [PMID: 33247339 PMCID: PMC7987635 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-03064-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This trend article reviews papers with hyphenated high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) approaches applied in analytical toxicology, particularly in clinical and forensic toxicology published since 2016 and referenced in PubMed. The article focuses on the question of whether HRMS has or will become the all-in-one device in these fields as supposed by the increasing number of HRMS presentations at scientific meetings, corresponding original papers, and review articles. Typical examples for the different application fields are discussed such as targeted or untargeted drug screening, quantification, drug metabolism studies, and metabolomics approaches. Considering the reviewed papers, HRMS is currently the only technique that fulfills the criteria of an all-in-one device for the various applications needed in analytical toxicology. Graphical abstract![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg (Saar), Germany.
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11
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Recent bionalytical methods for the determination of new psychoactive substances in biological specimens. Bioanalysis 2020; 12:1557-1595. [PMID: 33078960 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2020-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the problems associated with the consumption of new psychoactive substances is that in most scenarios of acute toxicity the possibility of quick clinical action may be impaired because many screening methods are not responsive to them, and laboratories are not able to keep pace with the appearance of new substances. For these reasons, developing and validating new analytical methods is mandatory in order to efficiently face those problems, allowing laboratories to be one step ahead. The goal of this work is to perform a critical review regarding bionalytical methods that can be used for the determination of new psychoactive substances (phenylethylamines, cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids, opioids, benzodiazepines, etc), particularly concerning sample preparation techniques and associated analytical methods.
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12
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Borden SA, Palaty J, Termopoli V, Famiglini G, Cappiello A, Gill CG, Palma P. MASS SPECTROMETRY ANALYSIS OF DRUGS OF ABUSE: CHALLENGES AND EMERGING STRATEGIES. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2020; 39:703-744. [PMID: 32048319 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry has been the "gold standard" for drugs of abuse (DoA) analysis for many decades because of the selectivity and sensitivity it affords. Recent progress in all aspects of mass spectrometry has seen significant developments in the field of DoA analysis. Mass spectrometry is particularly well suited to address the rapidly proliferating number of very high potency, novel psychoactive substances that are causing an alarming number of fatalities worldwide. This review surveys advancements in the areas of sample preparation, gas and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, as well as the rapidly emerging field of ambient ionization mass spectrometry. We have predominantly targeted literature progress over the past ten years and present our outlook for the future. © 2020 Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Borden
- Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5S5, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Jan Palaty
- LifeLabs Medical Laboratories, Burnaby, BC, V3W 1H8, Canada
| | - Veronica Termopoli
- LC-MS Laboratory, Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Giorgio Famiglini
- LC-MS Laboratory, Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Achille Cappiello
- Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5S5, Canada
- LC-MS Laboratory, Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Chris G Gill
- Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5S5, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195
| | - Pierangela Palma
- Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), Department of Chemistry, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5S5, Canada
- LC-MS Laboratory, Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
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13
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Cláudia M, Pedro A, Tiago R, Francisco CR, Eugenia G. Determination of New Psychoactive Substances in Whole Blood Using Microwave Fast Derivatization and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:92-102. [PMID: 31436798 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The production and consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) has been raising a major concern worldwide. Due to easy access and available information, many NPSs continue to be synthesized with an alarming increase of those available to purchase, despite all the control efforts created. A new analytical method was developed and validated to determine a group of phenethylamines and synthetic cathinones: cathinone, flephedrone, buphedrone, 4-MTA, α-PVP, methylone, 2C-P, ethylone, pentylone, MDPV and bromo-dragonFLY in whole blood. A mixed-mode solid phase extraction was applied to 250 μL of sample, and the extracts were derivatized with fast microwave technique before being analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The validation procedure followed the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX) guidelines with parameters that included selectivity, linearity, limits of detection and quantification, intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy, recoveries and stability. The method presented linearity between 5 and 500 ng/mL for cathinone, buphedrone, 4-MTA, methylone, 2C-P and bromo-dragonFLY, 10-500 ng/mL for flephedrone, ethylone, pentylone and MDPV, and 40-500 ng/mL for α-PVP, with determination coefficients above 0.99 for all analytes. Recoveries ranged between 70.3% and 116.6%, and regarding intra- and inter-day precision, the relative mean errors were typically lower than 8.6%. The method was successfully applied to over 100 authentic samples from the Laboratory of Chemistry and Forensic Toxicology, Centre Branch, of the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margalho Cláudia
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal
| | - Almeida Pedro
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal.,Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rosado Tiago
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia-UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Corte Real Francisco
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Centro, Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Largo da Sé Nova, 3000-213, Coimbra Portugal
| | - Gallardo Eugenia
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia-UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
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Davidson JT, Sasiene ZJ, Jackson GP. The characterization of isobaric product ions of fentanyl using multi‐stage mass spectrometry, high‐resolution mass spectrometry and isotopic labeling. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:496-503. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Tyler Davidson
- Department of Forensic and Investigative ScienceWest Virginia University Morgantown WV USA
| | - Zachary J. Sasiene
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of ChemistryWest Virginia University Morgantown WV USA
| | - Glen P. Jackson
- Department of Forensic and Investigative ScienceWest Virginia University Morgantown WV USA
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of ChemistryWest Virginia University Morgantown WV USA
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15
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Zawilska JB, Kacela M, Adamowicz P. NBOMes-Highly Potent and Toxic Alternatives of LSD. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:78. [PMID: 32174803 PMCID: PMC7054380 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, a new class of psychedelic compounds named NBOMe (or 25X-NBOMe) has appeared on the illegal drug market. NBOMes are analogs of the 2C family of phenethylamine drugs, originally synthesized by Alexander Shulgin, that contain a N-(2-methoxy)benzyl substituent. The most frequently reported drugs from this group are 25I-NBOMe, 25B-NBOMe, and 25C-NBOMe. NBOMe compounds are ultrapotent and highly efficacious agonists of serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors (Ki values in low nanomolar range) with more than 1000-fold selectivity for 5-HT2A compared with 5-HT1A. They display higher affinity for 5-HT2A receptors than their 2C counterparts and have markedly lower affinity, potency, and efficacy at the 5-HT2B receptor compared to 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C. The drugs are sold as blotter papers, or in powder, liquid, or tablet form, and they are administered sublingually/buccally, intravenously, via nasal insufflations, or by smoking. Since their introduction in the early 2010s, numerous reports have been published on clinical intoxications and fatalities resulting from the consumption of NBOMe compounds. Commonly observed adverse effects include visual and auditory hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, panic and fear, agitation, uncontrollable violent behavior, seizures, excited delirium, and sympathomimetic signs such mydriasis, tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, and diaphoresis. Rhabdomyolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and multiorgan failure were also reported. This survey provides an updated overview of the pharmacological properties, pattern of use, metabolism, and desired effects associated with NBOMe use. Special emphasis is given to cases of non-fatal and lethal intoxication involving these compounds. As the analysis of NBOMes in biological materials can be challenging even for laboratories applying modern sensitive techniques, this paper also presents the analytical methods most commonly used for detection and identification of NBOMes and their metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta B Zawilska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Monika Kacela
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Piotr Adamowicz
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Research, Kraków, Poland
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16
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Palmquist KB, Swortwood MJ. Data-independent screening method for 14 fentanyl analogs in whole blood and oral fluid using LC-QTOF-MS. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 297:189-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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17
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Roda G, Faggiani F, Bolchi C, Pallavicini M, Dei Cas M. Ten Years of Fentanyl-like Drugs: a Technical-analytical Review. ANAL SCI 2019; 35:479-491. [PMID: 30686797 DOI: 10.2116/analsci.18r004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl and its analogues, are a new public health warning. Clandestine laboratories produce drug analogues at a faster rate than these compounds can be controlled or scheduled by drug agencies. Detection requires specific testing and clinicians may be confronted with a sequence of severe issues concerning the diagnosis and management of these contemporary opioid overdoses. This paper deals with methods for biological sample treatment, as well as the methodologies of analysis that have been reported, in the last decade, in the field of fentanyl-like compounds. From this analysis, it emerges that the gold standard for the identification and quantification of 4-anilinopiperidines is LC-MS/MS, coupled with liquid-liquid or solid-phase extraction. In the end, the return to the scene of illicit fentanyls can be considered as a critical problem that can be tackled only with a global multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Roda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan
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18
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Mass Spectrometry for Research and Application in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring or Clinical and Forensic Toxicology. Ther Drug Monit 2018; 40:389-393. [PMID: 29750739 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews current applications of various hyphenated low- and high-resolution mass spectrometry techniques in the field of therapeutic drug monitoring and clinical/forensic toxicology in both research and practice. They cover gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization, or paper spray ionization coupled to quadrupole, ion trap, time-of-flight, or Orbitrap mass analyzers.
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19
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Richter LHJ, Maurer HH, Meyer MR. Metabolic fate of the new synthetic cannabinoid 7'N-5F-ADB in rat, human, and pooled human S9 studied by means of hyphenated high-resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2018; 11:305-317. [PMID: 30160067 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are an important issue in clinical/forensic toxicology. 7'N-5F-ADB, a synthetic cannabinoid derived from 5F-ADB, appeared recently on the market. Up to now, no data about its mass spectral fragmentation pattern, metabolism, and thus suitable targets for toxicological urine screenings have been available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the metabolic fate of 7'N-5F-ADB in rat, human, and pooled human S9 (pS9). The main human urinary excretion products, which can be used as targets for toxicological screening procedures, were identified by Orbitrap (OT)-based liquid chromatography-high resolution-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS). In addition, possible differentiation of 7'N-5F-ADB and 5F-ADB via LC-HRMS/MS was studied. Using the in vivo and in vitro models for metabolism studies, 36 metabolites were tentatively identified. 7'N-5F-ABD was extensively metabolized in rat and human with minor species differences observed. The unchanged parent compound could be found in human urine but metabolites were far more abundant. The most abundant ones were the hydrolyzed ester (M5), the hydrolyzed ester in combination with hydroxylation of the tertiary butyl part (M11), and the hydrolyzed ester in addition to glucuronidation (M30). Besides the parent compound, these metabolites should be used as targets for urine-based toxicological screening procedures. Two urine-paired human plasma samples contained mainly the parent compound (c = 205 μg/L, 157 μg/L) and, at a higher abundance, the compound after ester hydrolysis (M5). In pS9 incubations, the parent compound, M5, and M30 were detectable among others. Furthermore, a differentiation of both compounds was possible due to different retention times and fragmentation patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian H J Richter
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
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20
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Caspar AT, Meyer MR, Maurer HH. Blood plasma level determination using an automated LC-MS n screening system and electronically stored calibrations exemplified for 22 drugs and two active metabolites often requested in emergency toxicology. Drug Test Anal 2018; 11:102-111. [PMID: 30011134 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Fast and comprehensive qualitative and quantitative methods preferably by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and/or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) are needed to support the (differential) diagnosis of acute poisonings in emergency toxicology. One option is a commercially available qualitative screening solution based on LC-MSn (Bruker Daltonik Toxtyper™, TT). Identified and toxicologically relevant compounds should be quantified to assess severity of poisonings. The aim of the present study was to test the TT system for quantification simultaneous with the screening process in blood plasma exemplified for 22 relevant drugs and two active metabolites. A standard liquid-liquid extraction was used for sample work-up followed by 1:5 dilution of the final extracts. They were analyzed using the TT system consisting of a Bruker amaZon speed ion trap and a Thermo Fisher Dionex Ultimate 3000 LC system. Plasma levels were assessed using full-scan data and an electronically stored five-point calibration. The calibration model was linear for the studied ranges and could be used for at least two months. The method was validated according to international guidelines. The acceptance criteria recommended for emergency toxicology for accuracy and precision were fulfilled for all tested compounds, but bromazepam, lorazepam, oxycodone, and prothipendyl could reliably be determined only above the therapeutic range. In conclusion, the presented procedure allowed the combination of a comprehensive LC-MSn screening with fast automated assessment of plasma levels for emergency toxicology of tested compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achim T Caspar
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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21
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Abstract
Bioanalysis of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is very challenging due to the growing number of compounds with new chemical structures found on the drugs of abuse market. Screening, identification, and quantification in biosamples are needed in clinical and forensic toxicology settings, and these procedures are more challenging than the analysis of seized drug material because of extremely low concentrations encountered in biofluids but also due to diverse metabolic alterations of the parent compounds. This article focuses on bioanalytical single- and multi-analyte procedures applicable to a broad variety of NPS in various biomatrices, such as blood, urine, oral fluid, or hair. Sample preparation, instrumentation, detection modes, and data evaluation are discussed as well as corresponding pitfalls. PubMed-listed and English-written original research papers and review articles published online between 01 October 2012 and 30 September 2017 were considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
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