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Marchei E, Graziano S, Varì MR, Minutillo A, Aquilina V, Pichini S, Rotolo MC. NPS-EQA PART I: Four years' experience in external quality assessment program in Italy for classical and new psychoactive substances analysis in oral fluid. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 243:116084. [PMID: 38452420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
In 2019, Italian National Institute of Health established an external quality assessment program (EQA) to evaluate the performance of oral fluid testing for classical and new psychoactive substances by laboratories participating in the National Early Warning System collaborative centres. This report presents the results of four rounds between 2019 and 2023. Eleven oral fluid specimens, including 3 blank samples, were prepared by adding different classes of and new psychoactive drugs at known concentrations to pre-screened drug-free oral fluid. False-negative and false-positive results were calculated for the qualitative data evaluation. The quantitative evaluation measured the imprecision and accuracy of the results, in terms of coefficient of variation (CV%) and percent error (ERR%), respectively, with respect to a mean value obtained by reference laboratories. Z-score values were then calculated. Over the years, there has been a significant improvement in false-negative results (from 42.7% in the first year to 19.4% in the last year), but not in false-positive results (from 33.3% in the first year to 22.2% in the last one). In addition to the classic drugs of abuse (e.g. cocaine, amphetamine, methadone), the substances found in false positive samples belonged to the class of synthetic cannabinoids (e.g 5-fluoro CUMYL-PINACA and 5-fluoro-EDMB-PICA), synthetic opioids (e.g butyrylfentanyl) and tryptamines (e.g. 5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine). The four rounds yielded a mean ERR% of approximately 22.1% and a mean CV% of around 41.5%. The participating laboratories demonstrated variable performances in relation to the class of analysed psychoactive substances, as evidenced by the calculated Z-scores. Between 25% and 60% of the reported results in all rounds should be considered satisfactory. EQA is a crucial element of laboratory quality management systems. It promotes continuous improvement and maintains high standards in the field of forensic and clinical drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Marchei
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Graziano
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Varì
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Adele Minutillo
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Aquilina
- Investigation, Crime and International Security, Università degli Studi Internazionali di Roma - UNINT, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Hsu WH, Cheng KW, Feng TH, Chen JY, Chen GY, Chen LY, Weng T, Hsu CC. Rapid Screening of New Psychoactive Substances Using pDART-QqQ-MS. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:1370-1376. [PMID: 38652738 PMCID: PMC11157655 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.4c00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Drug abuse is a severe social problem worldwide. Particularly, the issue of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) have increasingly emerged. NPSs are structural or functional analogs of traditional illicit drugs, such as cocaine, cannabis, and amphetamine; these molecules provide the same or more severe neurological effects. Usually, immunoassays are utilized in the preliminary screening method. However, NPSs have poor detectability in commercially available immunoassay kits. Meanwhile, various chromatography combined with the mass spectrometry platform have been developed to quantify NPSs. Still, a significant amount of time and resources are required during these procedures. Therefore, we established a rapid analytical platform for NPSs employing paper-loaded direct analysis in real time triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (pDART-QqQ-MS). We implemented this platform for the semiquantitative analysis of forensic drug tests in urine. This platform significantly shrinks the analytical time of a single sample within 30 s and requires a low volume of the specimen. The platform can detect 21 NPSs in urine mixtures at a lower limit of qualification of concentration ranging from 20 to 75 nanograms per milliliter (ng mL-1) and is lower than the cutoff value of currently available immune-based devices for detecting multiple drugs (1000 ng mL-1). Urine samples from drug addicts have been collected to verify the platform's effectiveness. By combining efficiency and accuracy, our platform offers a promising solution for addressing the challenges posed by NPSs in drug abuse detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsin Hsu
- Department
of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Wen Cheng
- Department
of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hsuan Feng
- Department
of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Yu Chen
- Forensic
and Clinical Toxicology Center National Taiwan University College
of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Yuan Chen
- Forensic
and Clinical Toxicology Center National Taiwan University College
of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Department
and Graduate Institute of Forensic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Lian-Yu Chen
- Institute
of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Kunming
Prevention and Control Center, Taipei City
Hospital, Taipei 108203, Taiwan
| | - Te−I Weng
- Forensic
and Clinical Toxicology Center National Taiwan University College
of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Department
and Graduate Institute of Forensic Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chih Hsu
- Department
of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Leeuwenhoek
Laboratories Co. Ltd., No. 71, Fanglan Rd, Taipei, 106038, Taiwan
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Hisatsune K, Murata T, Taniguchi M, Asano T, Ogata K, Iguchi A, Zaitsu K. Development of a rapid-fire drug screening method by probe electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry for human urine (RaDPi-U). Anal Bioanal Chem 2024:10.1007/s00216-024-05215-x. [PMID: 38523158 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-024-05215-x] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Drug screening tests are mandatory in the search for drugs in forensic biological samples, and immunological methods and mass spectrometry (e.g., gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) are commonly used for that purpose. However, these methods have some drawbacks, and developing new screening methods is required. In this study, we develop a rapid-fire drug screening method by probe electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (PESI-MS/MS), which is an ambient ionization mass spectrometry method, for human urine, named RaDPi-U. RaDPi-U is carried out in three steps: (1) mixing urine with internal standard (IS) solution and ethanol, followed by vortexing; (2) pipetting the mixture onto a sample plate for PESI; and (3) rapid-fire analysis by PESI-MS/MS. RaDPi-U targets 40 forensically important drugs, which include illegal drugs, hypnotics, and psychoactive substances. The analytical results were obtained within 3 min because of the above-mentioned simple workflow of RaDPi-U. The calibration curves of each analyte were constructed using the IS method, and they were quantitatively valid, resulting in good linearity (0.972-0.999) with a satisfactory lower limit of detection and lower limit of quantitation (0.01-7.1 ng/mL and 0.02-21 ng/mL, respectively). Further, both trueness and precisions were 28% or less, demonstrating the high reliability and repeatability of the method. Finally, we applied RaDPi-U to three postmortem urine specimens and successfully detected different drugs in each urine sample. The practicality of the method is proven, and RaDPi-U will be a strong tool as a rapid-fire drug screening method not only in forensic toxicology but also in clinical toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuaki Hisatsune
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Aichi Prefectural Police Headquarters, 2-1-1, Sannomaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya, 460-8502, Japan.
| | - Tasuku Murata
- Shimadzu Corporation, 1, Nishinokyo-Kuwabaracho Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8511, Japan
| | - Masaru Taniguchi
- Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Sakurazaka, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya, 463-8585, Japan
| | - Tomomi Asano
- Department of Human Life and Environment, Kinjo Gakuin University, 2-1723 Omori, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya, 463-8521, Japan
| | - Koretsugu Ogata
- Shimadzu Corporation, 1, Nishinokyo-Kuwabaracho Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8511, Japan
| | - Akira Iguchi
- Geological Survey of Japan, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), AIST Tsukuba Central 7, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8567, Japan
- Research Laboratory On Environmentally-conscious Developments and Technologies [E-code], National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, 305-8567, Japan
| | - Kei Zaitsu
- Multimodal Informatics and Wide-Data Analytics Laboratory (MiWA-Lab.), Department of Computational Systems Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, 930 Nishi Mitani, Kinokawa, Wakayama, 649-6493, Japan.
- In Vivo Real-Time Omics Laboratory, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
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da Cunha KF, Oliveira KD, Costa JL. Green analytical toxicology method for determination of synthetic cathinones in oral fluid samples by microextraction by packed sorbent and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Forensic Toxicol 2024; 42:18-30. [PMID: 37505359 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-023-00671-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We developed and validated a method for quantitative analysis of ten synthetic cathinones in oral fluid (OF) samples, using microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) for sample preparation followed by liquid chromatography‒tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS). METHOD OF samples were collected with a Quantisal™ device and 200 µL was extracted using a C18 MEPS cartridge installed on a semi-automated pipette and then analyzed using LC‒M/SMS. RESULTS Linearity was achieved between 0.1 and 25 ng/mL, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.05 ng/mL and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.1 ng/mL. Imprecision (% relative standard deviation) and bias (%) were better than 11.6% and 7.5%, respectively. The method had good specificity and selectivity against 9 different blank OF samples (from different donors) and 68 pharmaceutical and drugs of abuse with concentrations varying between 400 and 10,000 ng/mL. No evidence of carryover was observed. The analytes were stable after three freeze/thaw cycles and when kept in the autosampler (10 °C) for up to 24 h. The method was successfully applied to quantify 41 authentic positive samples. Methylone (mean 0.6 ng/mL, median 0.2 ng/mL), N-ethylpentylone (mean 16.7 ng/mL, median 0.35 ng/mL), eutylone (mean 39.1 ng/mL, median 3.6 ng/mL), mephedrone (mean 0.5 ng/mL, median 0.5 ng/mL), and 4-chloroethcathinone (8.1 ng/mL) were quantified in these samples. CONCLUSION MEPS was an efficient technique for Green Analytical Toxicology purposes, which required only 650 µL organic solvent and 200 µL sodium hydroxide, and the BIN cartridge had a lifespan of 100 sample extractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Francisco da Cunha
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
| | - Karina Diniz Oliveira
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil
| | - Jose Luiz Costa
- Campinas Poison Control Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil.
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, 13083‑859, Brazil.
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Lesne E, Muñoz-Bartual M, Esteve-Turrillas FA. Determination of synthetic hallucinogens in oral fluids by microextraction by packed sorbent and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023:10.1007/s00216-023-04751-2. [PMID: 37219582 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04751-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
A fast and simple procedure based on microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been developed for the simultaneous quantification of 28 synthetic hallucinogens in oral fluids, including lysergic acid diethylamide and substances from NBOMe, NBOH, NBF, 2C, and substituted amphetamine categories. Extraction conditions such as type of sorbent, sample pH, number of charge/discharge cycles, and elution volume were studied. Hallucinogenic compounds were extracted from oral fluid samples using C18 MEPS, loading with 100 μL sample (adjusted to pH 7) in 3 cycles, washing with 100 μL deionized water, and eluting with 50 μL methanol in 1 cycle, giving quantitative recoveries and no significant matrix effects. Limits of detection from 0.09 to 1.22 μg L-1; recoveries from 80 to 129% performed in spiked oral fluid samples at 20, 50, and 100 μg L-1; and high precision with relative standard deviations lower than 9% were obtained. The proposed methodology was demonstrated to be appropriate for the simple and sensitive determination of NBOMe derivates and other synthetic hallucinogenic substances in oral fluid samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Lesne
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Valencia, 50th Dr. Moliner St., 46100, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Miguel Muñoz-Bartual
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Valencia, 50th Dr. Moliner St., 46100, Burjassot, Spain
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6
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Boronat Ena MDM, Cowan DA, Abbate V. Ambient ionization mass spectrometry applied to new psychoactive substance analysis. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2023; 42:3-34. [PMID: 34036620 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade a plethora of drugs with similar effects to controlled psychoactive drugs, like cannabis, amfetamine (amphetamine), or lysergic acid diethylamide, have been synthesized. These drugs can collectively be classified under the term new psychoactive substances (NPS) and are used for recreational purposes. The novelty of the substances, alongside the rapid rate of emergence and structural variability, makes their detection as well as their legal control highly challenging, increasing the demand for rapid and easy-to-use analytical techniques for their detection and identification. Therefore, interest in ambient ionization mass spectrometry applied to NPS has grown in recent years, which is largely because it is relatively fast and simple to use and has a low operating cost. This review aims to provide a critique of the suitability of current ambient ionization techniques for the analysis of NPS in the forensic and clinical toxicology fields. Consideration is given to analytical performance and ease of implementation, including ionization efficiency, selectivity, sensitivity, quantification, analyte chemistry, molecular coverage, validation, and practicality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Del Mar Boronat Ena
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
| | - David A Cowan
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
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7
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Wang H, So PK, Habib A, Xu Y, Bianchi F. Editorial: Ambient ionization mass spectrometry: From fundamentals to real-life applications. Front Chem 2023; 11:1182894. [PMID: 37065827 PMCID: PMC10098315 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1182894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Haixing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control of Zhejiang Province, National Anti-Drug Laboratory Zhejiang Regional Center, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Haixing Wang, ; Federica Bianchi,
| | - Pui-Kin So
- University Research Facility in Life Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ahsan Habib
- Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Yu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control of Zhejiang Province, National Anti-Drug Laboratory Zhejiang Regional Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Federica Bianchi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Science and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- *Correspondence: Haixing Wang, ; Federica Bianchi,
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Application of Fabric Phase Sorptive Extraction (FPSE) Engaged to Tandem LC-MS/MS for Quantification of Brorphine in Oral Fluid. J Xenobiot 2022; 12:356-364. [PMID: 36547469 PMCID: PMC9782742 DOI: 10.3390/jox12040025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Brorphine (1-[1-[1-(4-bromophenyl) ethyl]-piperidin-4-yl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzo [d]imidazol-2-one) is one of the most recent novel synthetic opioids (NSOs) on the novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) market, involved in over 100 deaths in 2020. Brorphine is a substituted piperidine-benzimidazolone analogue that retains structural similarities to fentanyl, acting as a full agonist at the μ-opioid receptor. Oral Fluid (OF) is an alternative matrix, frequently analyzed for the detection of NPS. Fabric phase sorptive extraction (FPSE) is a superior, green-sample -preparation technology recently applied for drug analysis. This contribution presents the development and validation of a method, based on the application of FPSE and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), to determine/quantitate brorphine in OF. The method's linearity ranged between 0.05 and 50 ng/mL (R2 = 0.9993), the bias ranged between 12.0 and 16.8%, and inter- and intra-day precisions ranged between 6.4 and 9.9%. Accuracy and extraction efficiency lied between 65 and 75%. LOD/LOQ were 0.015 ng/mL/0.05 ng/mL. Analyte's post-preparative stability was higher than 95%, while no matrix interferences and carryover between runs were observed. This is the first report introducing the application of FPSE for NPS determination, specifically, the quantification of brorphine in OF, thereby presenting a simple, rapid, sensitive, specific, effective, and reliable procedure engaged to LC-MS/MS that is suitable for routine application and the analysis of more NPSs.
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9
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Shi L, Habib A, Bi L, Hong H, Begum R, Wen L. Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry: Application and Prospective. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2022:1-50. [PMID: 36206159 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2022.2124840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS) is a formidable analytical tool for the analysis of non-polar to polar compounds individually and/or from mixtures, providing information on the molecular weights and chemical structures of the analytes. During the last more than one-decade, ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS) has developed quickly, producing a wide range of platforms and proving scientific improvements in a variety of domains, from biological imaging to quick quality control. These methods have made it possible to detect target analytes in real time without sample preparation in an open environment, and they can be connected to any MS system with an atmospheric pressure interface. They also have the ability to analyze explosives, illicit drugs, disease diagnostics, drugs in biological samples, adulterants in food and agricultural products, reaction progress, and environmental monitoring. The development of novel ambient ionization techniques, such as probe electrospray ionization, paper spray ionization, and fiber spray ionization, employed even at picolitre to femtolitre solution levels to provide femtogram to attogram levels of the target analytes. The special characteristic of this ambient ion source, which has been extensively used, is the noninvasive property of PESI of examination of biological real samples. The results in the current review supports the idea that AIMS has emerged as a pioneer in MS-based approaches and that methods will continue to be developed along with improvements to existing ones in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ahsan Habib
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lei Bi
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanhuan Hong
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rockshana Begum
- Department of Chemistry, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Luhong Wen
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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Wagmann L, Jacobs CM, Meyer MR. New Psychoactive Substances: Which Biological Matrix Is the Best for Clinical Toxicology Screening? Ther Drug Monit 2022; 44:599-605. [PMID: 35175247 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Every year, more new psychoactive substances (NPSs) emerge in the market of the drugs of abuse. NPSs belong to various chemical classes, such as synthetic cannabinoids, phenethylamines, opioids, and benzodiazepines. The detection of NPSs intake using different types of biological matrices is challenging for clinical toxicologists because of their structural diversity and the lack of information on their toxicokinetics, including their metabolic fate. METHODS PubMed-listed articles reporting mass spectrometry-based bioanalytical approaches for NPSs detection published during the past 5 years were identified and discussed. Furthermore, the pros and cons of using common biological matrices in clinical toxicology (CT) settings to screen for NPSs are highlighted in this review article. RESULTS Twenty-six articles presenting multianalyte screening methods for use in the field of CT were considered. The advantages and disadvantages of different biological matrices are discussed with a particular view of the different analytical tasks in CT, especially emergency toxicology. Finally, an outlook introduces the emerging trends in biosamples used in CT, such as the exhaled breath. CONCLUSIONS Blood and urine represent the most common biological matrices used in a CT setting; however, reports concerning NPSs detection in alternative matrices are also available. Noteworthy, the selection of the biological matrix must depend on the clinician's enquiry because the individual advantages and disadvantages must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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11
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Pascual-Caro S, Borrull F, Calull M, Aguilar C. Recent chromatographic and electrophoretic based methods for determining drugs of abuse in urine and oral fluid: A review from 2018 to June 2021. Trends Analyt Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2022.116705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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12
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Arcoleo A, Bianchi F, Careri M. A sensitive microextraction by packed sorbent-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for the assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons contamination in Antarctic surface snow. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 282:131082. [PMID: 34470154 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
For the first time an eco-friendly method involving microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was developed for the determination of the 16 US-EPA priority pollutant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as indicators of anthropogenic contamination in snow samples collected in polar regions. MEPS was carried out by using C8 sorbent material packed in a barrel insert and needle (BIN) and integrated in the eVol® semi-automatic device. For optimization purposes a Face Centred Design and the multicriteria method of the desirability functions were performed to investigate the effect of some parameters affecting the MEPS extraction efficiency, i.e. the number of loading cycles and the number of elution cycles. The developed MEPS-GC-MS method proved to be suitable for PAHs analysis at ultra-trace level by extracting small sample volumes achieving detection limits for 16 PAHs in the 0.3-5 ng L-1 range, repeatability and intermediate precision below 11% and 15%, respectively, and good recovery rates in the 77.6 (±0.1)-120.8 (±0.1)% range for spiked blank snow samples. Enrichment factors in the 64 (±7)-129 (±18) range were calculated. Finally, the proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of PAHs in surface snow samples collected in 2020-2021 from four locations of Northern Victoria Land, Antarctica. Local emission sources such as ships and research stations were found to influence PAHs concentrations in the surface snow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Arcoleo
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Bianchi
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Careri
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
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13
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Vincenti F, Montesano C, Pirau S, Gregori A, Di Rosa F, Curini R, Sergi M. Simultaneous Quantification of 25 Fentanyl Derivatives and Metabolites in Oral Fluid by Means of Microextraction on Packed Sorbent and LC-HRMS/MS Analysis. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26195870. [PMID: 34641416 PMCID: PMC8512571 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fentanyl and fentalogs’ intake as drugs of abuse is experiencing a great increase in recent years. For this reason, there are more and more cases in which it is important to recognize and quantify these molecules and related metabolites in biological matrices. Oral fluid (OF) is often used to find out if a subject has recently used a psychoactive substance and if, therefore, the person is still under the effect of psychotropics. Given its difficulty in handling, good sample preparation and the development of instrumental methods for analysis are essential. In this work, an analytical method is proposed for the simultaneous determination of 25 analytes, including fentanyl, several derivatives and metabolites. OF was collected by means of passive drool; sample pretreatment was developed in order to be fast, simple and possibly semi-automated by exploiting microextraction on packed sorbent (MEPS). The analysis was performed by means of LC–HRMS/MS obtaining good identification and quantification of all the analytes in less than 10 min. The proposed method was fully validated according to the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology (SWGTOX) international guidelines. Good results were obtained in terms of recoveries, matrix effect and sensitivity, showing that this method could represent a useful tool in forensic toxicology. The presented method was successfully applied to the analysis of proficiency test samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Vincenti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (S.P.); (R.C.)
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Montesano
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (S.P.); (R.C.)
- Correspondence: (C.M.); (M.S.); Tel.: +39-064-9913-559 (C.M.); +39-086-1266-949 (M.S.)
| | - Svetlana Pirau
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (S.P.); (R.C.)
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (F.D.R.)
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (F.D.R.)
| | - Roberta Curini
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (S.P.); (R.C.)
| | - Manuel Sergi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.M.); (M.S.); Tel.: +39-064-9913-559 (C.M.); +39-086-1266-949 (M.S.)
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14
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Alternative matrices in forensic toxicology: a critical review. Forensic Toxicol 2021; 40:1-18. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-021-00596-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The use of alternative matrices in toxicological analyses has been on the rise in clinical and forensic settings. Specimens alternative to blood and urine are useful in providing additional information regarding drug exposure and analytical benefits. The goal of this paper is to present a critical review on the most recent literature regarding the application of six common alternative matrices, i.e., oral fluid, hair, sweat, meconium, breast milk and vitreous humor in forensic toxicology.
Methods
The recent literature have been searched and reviewed for the characteristics, advantages and limitations of oral fluid, hair, sweat, meconium, breast milk and vitreous humor and its applications in the analysis of traditional drugs of abuse and novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
Results
This paper outlines the properties of six biological matrices that have been used in forensic analyses, as alternatives to whole blood and urine specimens. Each of this matrix has benefits in regards to sampling, extraction, detection window, typical drug levels and other aspects. However, theses matrices have also limitations such as limited incorporation of drugs (according to physical–chemical properties), impossibility to correlate the concentrations for effects, low levels of xenobiotics and ultimately the need for more sensitive analysis. For more traditional drugs of abuse (e.g., cocaine and amphetamines), there are already data available on the detection in alternative matrices. However, data on the determination of emerging drugs such as the NPS in alternative biological matrices are more limited.
Conclusions
Alternative biological fluids are important specimens in forensic toxicology. These matrices have been increasingly reported over the years, and this dynamic will probably continue in the future, especially considering their inherent advantages and the possibility to be used when blood or urine are unavailable. However, one should be aware that these matrices have limitations and particular properties, and the findings obtained from the analysis of these specimens may vary according to the type of matrix. As a potential perspective in forensic toxicology, the topic of alternative matrices will be continuously explored, especially emphasizing NPS.
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15
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A comprehensive UHPLC-MS/MS screening method for the analysis of 98 New Psychoactive Substances and related compounds in human hair. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2021; 205:114310. [PMID: 34391138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2021.114310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a rapid liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for the targeted analysis of 98 New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) from the hair matrix. The monitored compounds included various chemical classes (7 phenethylamines, 10 tryptamines, 18 cathinones, 24 synthetic opioids, and 38 synthetic cannabinoids) with emphasis given to newly emerged NPS. The method employed a direct extraction process through the incubation of hair samples (25 mg) and internal standards with M3® reagent at 100 °C for 60 min, followed by extract purification through acid and basic liquid-liquid micro-extraction (LLME). Extracted compounds were analyzed through LC-MS/MS system operating in multiple reaction monitoring mode. NPS were separated in 9.5 min with a Poroshell 120 EC-C18 column (2.7 μm, 4.6 × 50 mm) using a gradient eluting mobile phase composed of water and acetonitrile/water (95:5) both containing 0.1 % of formic acid. The developed and validated method shows a good precision (≤ 15 %), linearity (R2 between 0.993 and 0.999), selectivity, and sensitivity (LOD: 0.6-10.3 pg mg-1 and LOQ: 2.1-34.4 pg mg-1). The method showed also reduced matrix effect and acceptable recovery for most of the targeted compounds. Our results showed that this method is suitable for quantifying NPS in hair matrix and could be employed in the context of routine analyses in analytical laboratories.
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16
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Determinations of new psychoactive substances in biological matrices with focus on microextraction techniques: a review of fundamentals and state-of-the-art extraction methods. Forensic Toxicol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-021-00582-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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17
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Ahmad SM, Gonçalves OC, Oliveira MN, Neng NR, Nogueira JMF. Application of Microextraction-Based Techniques for Screening-Controlled Drugs in Forensic Context-A Review. Molecules 2021; 26:2168. [PMID: 33918766 PMCID: PMC8070059 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The analysis of controlled drugs in forensic matrices, i.e., urine, blood, plasma, saliva, and hair, is one of the current hot topics in the clinical and toxicological context. The use of microextraction-based approaches has gained considerable notoriety, mainly due to the great simplicity, cost-benefit, and environmental sustainability. For this reason, the application of these innovative techniques has become more relevant than ever in programs for monitoring priority substances such as the main illicit drugs, e.g., opioids, stimulants, cannabinoids, hallucinogens, dissociative drugs, and related compounds. The present contribution aims to make a comprehensive review on the state-of-the art advantages and future trends on the application of microextraction-based techniques for screening-controlled drugs in the forensic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir M. Ahmad
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (O.C.G.); (M.N.O.)
- Molecular Pathology and Forensic Biochemistry Laboratory, CiiEM, Campus Universitário—Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal
- Forensic and Psychological Sciences Laboratory Egas Moniz, Campus Universitário—Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Oriana C. Gonçalves
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (O.C.G.); (M.N.O.)
| | - Mariana N. Oliveira
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (O.C.G.); (M.N.O.)
| | - Nuno R. Neng
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (O.C.G.); (M.N.O.)
- Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José M. F. Nogueira
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (O.C.G.); (M.N.O.)
- Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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18
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Riboni N, Fornari F, Bianchi F, Careri M. A simple and efficient Solid-Phase Microextraction - Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry method for the determination of fragrance materials at ultra-trace levels in water samples using multi-walled carbon nanotubes as innovative coating. Talanta 2021; 224:121891. [PMID: 33379099 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.121891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of emerging contaminants is becoming of increasing importance to assess the impact of anthropogenic activities onto the environment. The present study reports for the first time the development and validation of an efficient method for the simultaneous determination of fragrance materials in water samples based on the use of a novel multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-based solid-phase microextraction coating. Helical MWCNTs were selected as adsorbent material due to their outstanding extraction performance. The multicriteria method of desirability functions allowed the optimization of the experimental conditions in terms of extraction time and extraction temperature. Validation proved the reliability of the method for the determination of the analytes at ultra-trace levels, obtaining detection limits in the 0.2-13 ng/L range, good precision, with relative standard deviations lower than 20% and recovery rates in the 80 ± 12%-111 ± 11%. Superior enrichment factors compared to commercial fibers were also calculated. Finally, applicability to real sample analysis was demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Riboni
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy; Center for Energy and Environment (CIDEA), University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 42, 43124, Parma, Italy.
| | - F Fornari
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - F Bianchi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy; Center for Energy and Environment (CIDEA), University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 42, 43124, Parma, Italy.
| | - M Careri
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy; Center for Energy and Environment (CIDEA), University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 42, 43124, Parma, Italy
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19
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Chen X, Wu X, Luan T, Jiang R, Ouyang G. Sample preparation and instrumental methods for illicit drugs in environmental and biological samples: A review. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1640:461961. [PMID: 33582515 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.461961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Detection of illicit drugs in the environmental samples has been challenged as the consumption increases globally. Current review examines the recent developments and applications of sample preparation techniques for illicit drugs in solid, liquid, and gas samples. For solid samples, traditional sample preparation methods such as liquid-phase extraction, solid-phase extraction, and the ones with external energy including microwave-assisted, ultrasonic-assisted, and pressurized liquid extraction were commonly used. The sample preparation methods mainly applied for liquid samples were microextraction techniques including solid-phase microextraction, microextraction by packed sorbent, dispersive solid-phase extraction, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, hollow fiber-based liquid-phase microextraction, and so on. Capillary microextraction of volatiles and airborne particulate sampling were primarily utilized to extract illicit drugs from gas samples. Besides, the paper introduced recently developed instrumental techniques applied to detect illicit drugs. Liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry and gas chromatograph mass spectrometry were the most widely used methods for illicit drugs samples. In addition, the development of ambient mass spectrometry techniques, such as desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and paper spray mass spectrometry, created potential for rapid in-situ analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlv Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Xinyan Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Tiangang Luan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Psychoactive Substances Monitoring and safety, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, 100 Waihuanxi Road, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ruifen Jiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China.
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- KLGHEI of Environment and Energy Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Test for Dangerous Chemicals, Guangdong Institute of Analysis (China National Analytical Center Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 510070, China; Chemistry College, Center of Advanced Analysis and Gene Sequencing, Zhengzhou University, Kexue Avenue 100, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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20
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Application of microextraction techniques in alternative biological matrices with focus on forensic toxicology: a review. Bioanalysis 2020; 13:45-64. [PMID: 33326299 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2020-0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interest in alternative biological matrices (e.g., hair and saliva) for forensic toxicology analysis has increased, and recent developments in sample preparation have targeted rapid, cheap, efficient and eco-friendly methods, including microextraction techniques. For this review, we have gathered information about these two hot topics. We discuss the composition, incorporation of analytes and advantages and disadvantages of different biological matrices, and also present the operation principles of the most reported microextraction procedures and their application in forensic toxicology. The outcome of this review may encourage future forensic researches into alternative samples and microextraction techniques.
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21
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Esteve-Turrillas FA, Armenta S, de la Guardia M. Sample preparation strategies for the determination of psychoactive substances in biological fluids. J Chromatogr A 2020; 1633:461615. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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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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23
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Brown HM, McDaniel TJ, Fedick PW, Mulligan CC. The current role of mass spectrometry in forensics and future prospects. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2020; 12:3974-3997. [PMID: 32720670 DOI: 10.1039/d0ay01113d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS) techniques are highly prevalent in crime laboratories, particularly those coupled to chromatographic separations like gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC). These methods are considered "gold standard" analytical techniques for forensic analysis and have been extensively validated for producing prosecutorial evidentiary data. However, factors such as growing evidence backlogs and problematic evidence types (e.g., novel psychoactive substance (NPS) classes) have exposed limitations of these stalwart techniques. This critical review serves to delineate the current role of MS methods across the broad sub-disciplines of forensic science, providing insight on how governmental steering committees guide their implementation. Novel, developing techniques that seek to broaden applicability and enhance performance will also be highlighted, from unique modifications to traditional hyphenated MS methods to the newer "ambient" MS techniques that show promise for forensic analysis, but need further validation before incorporation into routine forensic workflows. This review also expounds on how recent improvements to MS instrumental design, scan modes, and data processing could cause a paradigm shift in how the future forensic practitioner collects and processes target evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary M Brown
- Chemistry Division, Research Department, Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division (NAWCWD), United States Navy Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), China Lake, California 93555, USA.
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24
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Sorribes-Soriano A, Armenta S, Esteve- Turrillas F, Herrero-Martínez J. Tuning the selectivity of molecularly imprinted polymer extraction of arylcyclohexylamines: From class-selective to specific. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1124:94-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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25
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Miniaturized extraction method for analysis of synthetic opioids in urine by microextraction with packed sorbent and liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2020; 1624:461241. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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26
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da Cunha KF, Oliveira KD, Huestis MA, Costa JL. Screening of 104 New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and Other Drugs of Abuse in Oral Fluid by LC–MS-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:697-707. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are a major public health problem, primarily due to the increased number of acute poisoning cases. Detection of these substances is a challenge. The aim of this research was to develop and validate a sensitive screening method for 104 drugs of abuse, including synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, fentanyl analogues, phenethylamines and other abused psychoactive compounds (i.e., THC, MDMA, LSD and their metabolites) in oral fluid by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS). The Quantisal™ oral fluid device was used to collect oral fluid samples. The oral fluid–elution buffer mixture (500-μL sample) was extracted with t-butyl methyl ether, and chromatographic separation was performed on a Raptor™ biphenyl column (100 × 2.1 mm ID, 2.7 μm), with a total run time of 13.5 min. Limits of detection were established at three concentrations (0.05, 0.1 or 1 ng/mL) for most analytes, except for acetyl norfentanyl and mescaline (5 ng/mL). Matrix effects were generally <20% and overall extraction recoveries >60%. The highest matrix effect was observed within the synthetic cannabinoid group (PB22, −55.5%). Lower recoveries were observed for 2C-T (47.2%) and JWH-175 (58.7%). Recoveries from the Quantisal™ device were also evaluated for all analytes (56.7–127%), with lower recoveries noted for 25I-NBOMe, valerylfentanyl and mCPP (56.7, 63.0 and 69.9%, respectively). Drug stability in oral fluid was evaluated at 15, 60 and 90 days and at 25, 4 and −20°C. As expected, greater stability was observed when samples were stored at −20°C, but even when frozen, some NPS (e.g., synthetic cannabinoids) showed more than 20% degradation. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of seven authentic oral fluid samples positive for 17 different analytes. The method achieved good sensitivity and simultaneous detection of a wide range of NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Francisco da Cunha
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Karina Diniz Oliveira
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Jose Luiz Costa
- Campinas Poison Control Center, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-859, Brazil
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27
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Calò L, Anzillotti L, Maccari C, Cecchi R, Andreoli R. Validation of a Bioanalytical Method for the Determination of Synthetic and Natural Cannabinoids (New Psychoactive Substances) in Oral Fluid Samples by Means of HPLC-MS/MS. Front Chem 2020; 8:439. [PMID: 32656178 PMCID: PMC7325870 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) represent an important focus nowadays and are continually produced with minimal structural modifications in order to circumvent the law and increase the difficulty of identifying them. Moreover, since there are a high number of different compounds, it is arduous to develop analytical screening and/or confirmation methods that allow the identification and quantification of these compounds. The aim of this work is to develop and validate a bioanalytical method for detecting new synthetic drugs in biological samples, specifically oral fluid, using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) with minimal sample pretreatment. Oral fluid samples were simply centrifuged and denaturized with different rapid procedures before injection into the LC-MS/MS system. Calibration curves covered a linear concentration range from LOQ to 100 ng/mL. Validation parameters such as linearity, precision, accuracy, selectivity, matrix effect and thermal stability were evaluated and showed satisfactory results, in accordance with US Food & Drug Administration guidelines. The inter-day analytical bias and imprecision at two levels of quality control (QC) were within ±15% for most compounds. This method was able to identify and calculate the concentration of 10 NPS validated in this biological sample, even in the presence of matrix effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Calò
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luca Anzillotti
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Maccari
- Laboratory of Industrial Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Rossana Cecchi
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberta Andreoli
- Laboratory of Industrial Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Centre for Research in Toxicology (CERT), University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Bianchi F, Mattarozzi M, Careri M. The role of surface in desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry: advances and future trends. Anal Bioanal Chem 2020; 412:3967-3973. [PMID: 32385578 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-02671-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
An outlook on the current status and trends in desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (DESI-MS), one of the most common spray-based techniques for ambient ionization, is given with a focus on the main advances recently achieved or still in progress regarding studies of surface properties affecting the signal stability and efficiency of the DESI process. Future directions that the field may take in the years to come are discussed, with particular focus on bioanalytical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Bianchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Monica Mattarozzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Careri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43124, Parma, Italy.
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Anzillotti L, Calò L, Banchini A, Schirripa M, Marezza F, Cecchi R. Mephedrone and chemsex: a case report. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2020; 42:101640. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2019.101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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New approach in radiometabolite analysis of positron emission tomography (PET) radioligands; lead-shielded microextraction by packed sorbent as a tool for in vivo radiometabolite analysis of [11C]SMW139 in rat plasma. Talanta 2020; 208:120449. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2019.120449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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31
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Microextraction approaches for bioanalytical applications: An overview. J Chromatogr A 2019; 1616:460790. [PMID: 31892411 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2019.460790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Biological samples are usually complex matrices due to the presence of proteins, salts and a variety of organic compounds with chemical properties similar to those of the target analytes. Therefore, sample preparation is often mandatory in order to isolate the analytes from troublesome matrices before instrumental analysis. Because the number of samples in drug development, doping analysis, forensic science, toxicological analysis, and preclinical and clinical assays is steadily increasing, novel high throughput sample preparation approaches are calling for. The key factors in this development are the miniaturization and the automation of the sample preparation approaches so as to cope with most of the twelve principles of green chemistry. In this review, recent trends in sample preparation and novel strategies will be discussed in detail with particular focus on sorptive and liquid-phase microextraction in bioanalysis. The actual applicability of selective sorbents is also considered. Additionally, the role of 3D printing in microextraction for bioanalytical methods will be pinpointed.
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Lendor S, Gómez-Ríos GA, Boyacı E, Vander Heide H, Pawliszyn J. Space-Resolved Tissue Analysis by Solid-Phase Microextraction Coupled to High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry via Desorption Electrospray Ionization. Anal Chem 2019; 91:10141-10148. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b02157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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