1
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Majeed HA, Bos TS, Voeten RLC, Kranenburg RF, van Asten AC, Somsen GW, Kohler I. Trapped ion mobility mass spectrometry of new psychoactive substances: Isomer-specific identification of ring-substituted cathinones. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1264:341276. [PMID: 37230720 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341276] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are synthetic derivatives of illicit drugs designed to mimic their psychoactive effects. NPS are typically not controlled under drug acts or their legal status depends on their molecular structure. Discriminating isomeric forms of NPS is therefore crucial for forensic laboratories. In this study, a trapped ion mobility spectrometry time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TIMS-TOFMS) approach was developed for the identification of ring-positional isomers of synthetic cathinones, a class of compounds representing two-third of all NPS seized in Europe in 2020. The optimized workflow features narrow ion-trapping regions, mobility calibration by internal reference, and a dedicated data-analysis tool, allowing for accurate relative ion-mobility assessment and high-confidence isomer identification. Ortho-, meta- and para-isomers of methylmethcathinone (MMC) and bicyclic ring isomers of methylone were assigned based on their specific ion mobilities within 5 min, including sample preparation and data analysis. The resolution of two distinct protomers per cathinone isomer added to the confidence in identification. The developed approach was successfully applied to the unambiguous assignment of MMC isomers in confiscated street samples. These findings demonstrate the potential of TIMS-TOFMS for forensic case work requiring fast and highly-confident assignment cathinone-drug isomers in confiscated samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany A Majeed
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tijmen S Bos
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert L C Voeten
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruben F Kranenburg
- Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Forensic Laboratory, Unit Amsterdam, Dutch National Police, Kabelweg 25, 1014 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arian C van Asten
- Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, P.O. Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Govert W Somsen
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Kohler
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, P.O. Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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2
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Deventer MH, Norman C, Reid R, McKenzie C, Nic Daéid N, Stove CP. In vitro characterization of the pyrazole-carrying synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and its structural analogs. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 343:111565. [PMID: 36640535 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111565] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) market is undergoing important changes since the enactment of the 2021 class-wide generic SCRA ban in China, one of the most important source countries for new psychoactive substances (NPS). Recently, various compounds with new structural features, synthesized to bypass this legislation, have entered the recreational drug market. Certain monocyclic pyrazole-carrying "FUPPYCA" SCRAs have been sporadically detected since 2015 without gaining further popularity. However, as evidenced by their recent detection in Scottish prisons, 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and 3,5-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA have re-emerged, potentially triggered by the new legislative ban. The aim of this study was to characterize the in vitro intrinsic CB1 and CB2 receptor activation potential of 5F-3,5-AB-PFUPPYCA and 3,5-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA, as well as 4 analogs (5F-3,5-ADB-PFUPPYCA, 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA, 5,3-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and 5,3-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA) using live cell β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays. Most analogs were essentially inactive at either CB1 or CB2, with only 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA, 5,3-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and 5,3-ADB-4en-PFUPPYCA showing a limited activation potential at CB1. Furthermore, the importance of the position of the tail structure was demonstrated, with 5,3 regioisomers being more active than their 3,5 analogs. Moreover, all compounds exhibited antagonistic behavior at both receptors, which may be associated with their structural resemblance to cannabinoid antagonists and inverse agonists. Although the 3,5 regioisomers of these "FUPPYCA" SCRAs circumvent the Chinese ban, it is unlikely that these SCRAs will pose a major threat to public health, given the lack of pronounced CB receptor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Craig McKenzie
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Chiron AS, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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3
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Saldaña-Shumaker SL, Grenning AJ, Cunningham CW. Modern approaches to the development of synthetic cannabinoid receptor probes. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 203:173119. [PMID: 33508249 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, which spans the central and peripheral nervous systems and regulates many biologic processes, is an important target for probe discovery and medications development. Whereas the earliest endocannabinoid receptor probes were derivatives of the non-selective phytocannabinoids isolated from Cannabis species, modern drug discovery techniques have expanded the definitions of what constitutes a CB1R or CB2R cannabinoid receptor ligand. This review highlights recent advances in synthetic cannabinoid receptor chemistry and pharmacology. We provide examples of new CB1R- and CB2R-selective probes, and discuss rational approaches to the design of peripherally-restricted agents. We also describe structural classes of positive- and negative allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs) of CB1R and CB2R. Finally, we introduce new opportunities for cannabinoid receptor probe development that have emerged in recent years, including biased agonists that may lead to medications lacking adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savanah L Saldaña-Shumaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA
| | - Alexander J Grenning
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, PO Box 117200, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Christopher W Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA.
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4
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Brandt SD, Kavanagh PV, Westphal F, Dreiseitel W, Dowling G, Bowden MJ, Williamson JPB. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists: Analytical profiles and development of QMPSB, QMMSB, QMPCB, 2F-QMPSB, QMiPSB, and SGT-233. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:175-196. [PMID: 32880103 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A diverse assortment of molecules designed to explore the cannabinoid receptor system and considered new psychoactive substances (NPS) have become known as synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs). One group of SCRAs that has received little attention involves those exhibiting sulfamoyl benzoate, sulfamoyl benzamide, and N-benzoylpiperidine based structures. In this study, quinolin-8-yl 4-methyl-3-(piperidine-1-sulfonyl)benzoate (QMPSB), quinolin-8-yl 4-methyl-3-(morpholine-4-sulfonyl)benzoate (QMMSB), quinolin-8-yl 4-methyl-3-(piperidine-1-carbonyl)benzoate (QMPCB, SGT-11), quinolin-8-yl 3-(4,4-difluoropiperidine-1-sulfonyl)-4-methylbenzoate (2F-QMPSB, QMDFPSB, SGT-13), quinolin-8-yl 4-methyl-3-[(propan-2-yl)sulfamoyl]benzoate (QMiPSB, SGT-46), and 3-(4,4-difluoropiperidine-1-sulfonyl)-4-methyl-N-(2-phenylpropan-2-yl)benzamide (SGT-233) were extensively characterized (including data on impurities). The analytical profiles may be useful to researchers and scientists who deal with the emergence of NPS during forensic and clinical investigations. The detection of QMPSB was first published in 2016 but it is worth noting that Stargate International, a company originally formed to develop harm reduction solutions, were involved in the investigation and development of these six compounds for potential release between 2011 and early 2014. Whilst information on the prevalence of use of these particular compounds at the present time is limited, one of the key outcomes of the research performed by Stargate International reviewed here was to set the stage for the quinolin-8-yl ester head group that ultimately led to hybridization with an N-alkyl-1H-indole core to give SGT-21 and SGT-32, which became later known as PB-22 (QMPSB/JWH-018 hybrid) and BB-22, respectively, thus, opening the door to a range of SCRAs carrying the quinolin-8-yl head group from about 2012 onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Pierce V Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Folker Westphal
- Section Narcotics/Toxicology, State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Geraldine Dowling
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Life Sciences, School of Science, Sligo Institute of Technology, Ash Lane, Sligo, Ireland
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5
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Jones NS, Comparin JH. Interpol review of controlled substances 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:608-669. [PMID: 33385148 PMCID: PMC7770462 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in controlled substances from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20Papers%202019.pdf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole S. Jones
- RTI International, Applied Justice Research Division, Center for Forensic Sciences, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 22709-2194, USA
| | - Jeffrey H. Comparin
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Testing and Research Laboratory, USA
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6
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Kranenburg RF, van Geenen FAMG, Berden G, Oomens J, Martens J, van Asten AC. Mass-Spectrometry-Based Identification of Synthetic Drug Isomers Using Infrared Ion Spectroscopy. Anal Chem 2020; 92:7282-7288. [PMID: 32286052 PMCID: PMC7240807 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c00915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Infrared ion spectroscopy (IRIS), a mass-spectrometry-based technique exploiting resonant infrared multiple photon dissociation (IRMPD), has been applied for the identification of novel psychoactive substances (NPS). Identification of the precise isomeric forms of NPS is of significant forensic relevance since legal controls are dependent on even minor molecular differences such as a single ring-substituent position. Using three isomers of fluoroamphetamine and two ring-isomers of both MDA and MDMA, we demonstrate the ability of IRIS to distinguish closely related NPS. Computationally predicted infrared (IR) spectra are shown to correspond with experimental spectra and could explain the molecular origins of their distinctive IR absorption bands. IRIS was then used to investigate a confiscated street sample containing two unknown substances. One substance could easily be identified by comparison to the IR spectra of reference standards. For the other substance, however, this approach proved inconclusive due to incomplete mass spectral databases as well as a lack of available reference compounds, two common analytical limitations resulting from the rapid development of NPS. Most excitingly, the second unknown substance could nevertheless be identified by using computationally predicted IR spectra of several potential candidate structures instead of their experimental reference spectra.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F. Kranenburg
- Unit
Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Dutch National
Police, Kabelweg 25, Amsterdam 1014 BA, The Netherlands
- Van’t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University
of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, The
Netherlands
| | - Fred A. M. G. van Geenen
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, FELIX Laboratory, Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, Nijmegen 6525 ED, The Netherlands
| | - Giel Berden
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, FELIX Laboratory, Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, Nijmegen 6525 ED, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Oomens
- Van’t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University
of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, The
Netherlands
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, FELIX Laboratory, Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, Nijmegen 6525 ED, The Netherlands
| | - Jonathan Martens
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, FELIX Laboratory, Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, Nijmegen 6525 ED, The Netherlands
| | - Arian C. van Asten
- Van’t
Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University
of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, The
Netherlands
- Co
van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic
Science and Medicine, P.O. Box 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, The
Netherlands
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7
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Banister SD, Kevin RC, Martin L, Adams A, Macdonald C, Manning JJ, Boyd R, Cunningham M, Stevens MY, McGregor IS, Glass M, Connor M, Gerona RR. The chemistry and pharmacology of putative synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) new psychoactive substances (NPS) 5F‐PY‐PICA, 5F‐PY‐PINACA, and their analogs. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:976-989. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. Banister
- School of ChemistryThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
- Department of PathologyStanford University CA USA
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Lewis Martin
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Axel Adams
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
| | - Christa Macdonald
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMacquarie University NSW Australia
| | - Michael Cunningham
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of PharmacyThe University of Mississippi MS USA
| | | | - Iain S. McGregor
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMacquarie University NSW Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
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8
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Martek BA, Mihelač M, Gazvoda M, Virant M, Urankar D, Krivec M, Gostič T, Nemec B, Koštrun B, Janežič M, Klemenc S, Košmrlj J. 1
H−
15
N HMBC NMR as a tool for rapid identification of isomeric azaindoles: The case of 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:617-625. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mateja Mihelač
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Martin Gazvoda
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Miha Virant
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Damijana Urankar
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Marko Krivec
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Gostič
- RS Ministry of the Interior, General Police DirectorateNational Forensic Laboratory Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Brigita Nemec
- RS Ministry of the Interior, General Police DirectorateNational Forensic Laboratory Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Bojana Koštrun
- RS Ministry of the Interior, General Police DirectorateNational Forensic Laboratory Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Mojca Janežič
- RS Ministry of the Interior, General Police DirectorateNational Forensic Laboratory Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Sonja Klemenc
- RS Ministry of the Interior, General Police DirectorateNational Forensic Laboratory Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Janez Košmrlj
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical TechnologyUniversity of Ljubljana Ljubljana Slovenia
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9
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Johnson CS, Copp BR, Lewis A. New psychoactive substances detected at the New Zealand border, 2014-2018. Drug Test Anal 2018; 11:341-346. [PMID: 30346116 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron S Johnson
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited, Mt Albert Science Centre, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brent R Copp
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Aaron Lewis
- New Zealand Customs Service, Auckland, New Zealand
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10
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Banister SD, Connor M. The Chemistry and Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist New Psychoactive Substances: Evolution. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 252:191-226. [PMID: 30105473 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Although the earliest SCRA NPS were simply repurposed from historical academic manuscripts or pharmaceutical patents describing cannabinoid ligands, recent examples bear hallmarks of rational design. SCRA NPS manufacturers have applied traditional medicinal chemistry strategies (such as molecular hybridization, bioisosteric replacement, and scaffold hopping) to existing cannabinoid templates in order to generate new molecules that circumvent structure-based legislation. Most SCRAs potently activate cannabinoid type 1 and type 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively), with the former contributing to the psychoactivity of these substances. SCRAs are generally more toxic than the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) found in cannabis, and this may be due to ligand bias, metabolism, or off-target activity. This chapter will chart the evolution of recently identified SCRA NPS chemotypes, as well as their putative manufacturing by-products and thermolytic degradants, and describe structure-activity relationships within each class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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11
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Brunt TM, Atkinson AM, Nefau T, Martinez M, Lahaie E, Malzcewski A, Pazitny M, Belackova V, Brandt SD. Online test purchased new psychoactive substances in 5 different European countries: A snapshot study of chemical composition and price. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 44:105-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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12
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Fabregat-Safont D, Fornís I, Ventura M, Gil C, Calzada N, Sancho J, Hernández F, Ibáñez M. Identification and characterization of a putative new psychoactive substance, 2-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)acetamido)-3-methylbutanamide, in Spain. Drug Test Anal 2017; 9:1073-1080. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. Fabregat-Safont
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Avda Sos Baynat s/n 12071 Castellón Spain
| | - I. Fornís
- Energy Control (Asociación Bienestar y Desarrollo); c/ Independencia 384 08041 Barcelona Spain
| | - M. Ventura
- Energy Control (Asociación Bienestar y Desarrollo); c/ Independencia 384 08041 Barcelona Spain
| | - C. Gil
- Energy Control (Asociación Bienestar y Desarrollo); c/ Independencia 384 08041 Barcelona Spain
| | - N. Calzada
- Energy Control (Asociación Bienestar y Desarrollo); c/ Independencia 384 08041 Barcelona Spain
| | - J.V. Sancho
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Avda Sos Baynat s/n 12071 Castellón Spain
| | - F. Hernández
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Avda Sos Baynat s/n 12071 Castellón Spain
| | - M. Ibáñez
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Avda Sos Baynat s/n 12071 Castellón Spain
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13
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Banister SD, Longworth M, Kevin R, Sachdev S, Santiago M, Stuart J, Mack JBC, Glass M, McGregor IS, Connor M, Kassiou M. Pharmacology of Valinate and tert-Leucinate Synthetic Cannabinoids 5F-AMBICA, 5F-AMB, 5F-ADB, AMB-FUBINACA, MDMB-FUBINACA, MDMB-CHMICA, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2016; 7:1241-54. [PMID: 27421060 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.6b00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Indole and indazole synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) featuring l-valinate or l-tert-leucinate pendant group have recently emerged as prevalent recreational drugs, and their use has been associated with serious adverse health effects. Due to the limited pharmacological data available for these compounds, 5F-AMBICA, 5F-AMB, 5F-ADB, AMB-FUBINACA, MDMB-FUBINACA, MDMB-CHMICA, and their analogues were synthesized and assessed for cannabimimetic activity in vitro and in vivo. All SCs acted as potent, highly efficacious agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 0.45-36 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 4.6-128 nM) receptors in a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, with a general preference for CB1 activation. The cannabimimetic properties of two prevalent compounds with confirmed toxicity in humans, 5F-AMB and MDMB-FUBINACA, were demonstrated in vivo using biotelemetry in rats. Bradycardia and hypothermia were induced by 5F-AMB and MDMB-FUBINACA doses of 0.1-1 mg/kg (and 3 mg/kg for 5F-AMB), with MDMB-FUBINACA showing the most dramatic hypothermic response recorded in our laboratory for any SC (>3 °C at 0.3 mg/kg). Reversal of hypothermia by pretreatment with a CB1, but not CB2, antagonist was demonstrated for 5F-AMB and MDMB-FUBINACA, consistent with CB1-mediated effects in vivo. The in vitro and in vivo data indicate that these SCs act as highly efficacious CB receptor agonists with greater potency than Δ(9)-THC and earlier generations of SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. Banister
- Department
of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | | | | | - Shivani Sachdev
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Marina Santiago
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Jordyn Stuart
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - James B. C. Mack
- Department
of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94304, United States
| | - Michelle Glass
- School
of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | | | - Mark Connor
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
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14
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Longworth M, Banister SD, Mack JBC, Glass M, Connor M, Kassiou M. The 2-alkyl-2 H-indazole regioisomers of synthetic cannabinoids AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA are possible manufacturing impurities with cannabimimetic activities. Forensic Toxicol 2016; 34:286-303. [PMID: 27547266 PMCID: PMC4971050 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-016-0316-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Indazole-derived synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) featuring an alkyl substituent at the 1-position and l-valinamide at the 3-carboxamide position (e.g., AB-CHMINACA) have been identified by forensic chemists around the world, and are associated with serious adverse health effects. Regioisomerism is possible for indazole SCs, with the 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomer of AB-CHMINACA recently identified in SC products in Japan. It is unknown whether this regiosiomer represents a manufacturing impurity arising as a synthetic byproduct, or was intentionally synthesized as a cannabimimetic agent. This study reports the synthesis, analytical characterization, and pharmacological evaluation of commonly encountered indazole SCs AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA and their corresponding 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers. Both regioisomers of each SC were prepared from a common precursor, and the physical properties, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy of all SC compounds are described. Additionally, AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA were found to act as high potency agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 2.1-11.6 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 5.6-21.1 nM) receptors in fluorometric assays, while the corresponding 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers demonstrated low potency (micromolar) agonist activities at both receptors. Taken together, these data suggest that 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers of AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA are likely to be encountered by forensic chemists and toxicologists as the result of improper purification during the clandestine synthesis of 1-alkyl-1H-indazole regioisomers, and can be distinguished by differences in gas chromatography-mass spectrometry fragmentation pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - James B C Mack
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.,Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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15
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Jia W, Meng X, Qian Z, Hua Z, Li T, Liu C. Identification of three cannabimimetic indazole and pyrazole derivatives, APINACA 2H-indazole analogue, AMPPPCA, and 5F-AMPPPCA. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:248-255. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jia
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
| | - Xin Meng
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
| | - Zhenhua Qian
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
| | - Zhendong Hua
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
| | - Tao Li
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
| | - Cuimei Liu
- National Narcotics Laboratory; Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security; Beijing China
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16
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Franz F, Angerer V, Brandt SD, McLaughlin G, Kavanagh PV, Moosmann B, Auwärter V. In vitro metabolism of the synthetic cannabinoid 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and its 5,3-regioisomer and investigation of their thermal stability. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:311-316. [PMID: 26888282 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the pyrazole-containing synthetic cannabinoid N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxamide (3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA) has been identified as a 'research chemical' both in powdered form and as an adulterant present in herbal preparations. Urine is the most common matrix used for abstinence control and the extensive metabolism of synthetic cannabinoids requires implementation of targeted analysis. The present study describes the investigation of the in vitro phase I metabolism of 3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA and its regioisomer 5,3-AB-CHMFUPPYCA using pooled human liver microsomes. Metabolic patterns of both AB-CHMFUPPYCA isomers were qualitatively similar and dominated by oxidation of the cyclohexylmethyl side chain. Biotransformation to monohydroxylated metabolites of high abundance confirmed that these species might serve as suitable targets for urine analysis. Furthermore, since synthetic cannabinoids are commonly administered by smoking and because some metabolites can also be formed as thermolytic artefacts, the stability of both isomers was assessed under smoking conditions. Under these conditions, pyrolytic cleavage of the amide bond occurred that led to approximately 3 % conversion to heat-induced degradation products that were also detected during metabolism. These artefactual 'metabolites' could potentially bias in vivo metabolic profiles after smoking and might have to be considered for interpretation of metabolite findings during hair analysis. This might be relevant to the analysis of hair samples where detection of metabolites is generally accepted as a strong indication of drug use rather than a potential external contamination. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Franz
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Department, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 9, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Hebelstr. 27, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Verena Angerer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Department, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 9, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.,Hermann Staudinger Graduate School, University of Freiburg, Hebelstr. 27, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Gavin McLaughlin
- Department of Life and Physical Sciences, School of Science, Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ireland.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Pierce V Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Bjoern Moosmann
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Department, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 9, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology Department, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 9, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
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