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Godoi AB, Antunes NDJ, Cunha KF, Martins AF, Huestis MA, Costa JL. Metabolic Stability and Metabolite Identification of N-Ethyl Pentedrone Using Rat, Mouse and Human Liver Microsomes. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:257. [PMID: 38399311 PMCID: PMC10893277 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs) are defined as a group of substances produced from molecular modifications of traditional drugs. These molecules represent a public health problem since information about their metabolites and toxicity is poorly understood. N-ethyl pentedrone (NEP) is an NPS that was identified in the illicit market for the first time in the mid-2010s, with four intoxication cases later described in the literature. This study aims to evaluate the metabolic stability of NEP as well as to identify its metabolites using three liver microsomes models. To investigate metabolic stability, NEP was incubated with rat (RLM), mouse (MLM) and human (HLM) liver microsomes and its concentration over time evaluated by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. For metabolite identification, the same procedure was employed, but the samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Different metabolism profiles were observed depending on the model employed and kinetic parameters were determined. The in vitro NEP elimination half-lives (t1/2) were 12.1, 187 and 770 min for the rat, mouse and human models, respectively. Additionally, in vitro intrinsic clearances (Cl int, in vitro) were 229 for rat, 14.8 for mouse, and 3.6 μL/min/mg in the human model, and in vivo intrinsic clearances (Cl int, in vivo) 128, 58.3, and 3.7 mL/min/kg, respectively. The HLM model had the lowest rate of metabolism when compared to RLM and MLM. Also, twelve NEP metabolites were identified from all models, but at different rates of production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Barcia Godoi
- Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica (CIATox) de Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil; (A.B.G.); (K.F.C.); (A.F.M.); (J.L.C.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil
| | - Natalícia de Jesus Antunes
- Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica (CIATox) de Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil; (A.B.G.); (K.F.C.); (A.F.M.); (J.L.C.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil
| | - Kelly Francisco Cunha
- Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica (CIATox) de Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil; (A.B.G.); (K.F.C.); (A.F.M.); (J.L.C.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil
| | - Aline Franco Martins
- Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica (CIATox) de Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil; (A.B.G.); (K.F.C.); (A.F.M.); (J.L.C.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
| | - Jose Luiz Costa
- Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica (CIATox) de Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil; (A.B.G.); (K.F.C.); (A.F.M.); (J.L.C.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-859, SP, Brazil
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2
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Hemmer S, Wagmann L, Pulver B, Westphal F, Meyer MR. In Vitro and In Vivo Toxicometabolomics of the Synthetic Cathinone PCYP Studied by Means of LC-HRMS/MS. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12121209. [PMID: 36557246 PMCID: PMC9783153 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12121209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are one important group amongst new psychoactive substances (NPS) and limited information is available regarding their toxicokinetics and -dynamics. Over the past few years, nontargeted toxicometabolomics has been increasingly used to study compound-related effects of NPS to identify important exogenous and endogenous biomarkers. In this study, the effects of the synthetic cathinone PCYP (2-cyclohexyl-1-phenyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-ethanone) on in vitro and in vivo metabolomes were investigated. Pooled human-liver microsomes and blood and urine of male Wistar rats were used to generate in vitro and in vivo data, respectively. Samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry using an untargeted metabolomics workflow. Statistical evaluation was performed using univariate and multivariate statistics. In total, sixteen phase I and one phase II metabolite of PCYP could be identified as exogenous biomarkers. Five endogenous biomarkers (e.g., adenosine and metabolites of tryptophan metabolism) related to PCYP intake could be identified in rat samples. The present data on the exogenous biomarker of PCYP are crucial for setting up analytical screening procedures. The data on the endogenous biomarker are important for further studies to better understand the physiological changes associated with cathinone abuse but may also serve in the future as additional markers for an intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Hemmer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Lea Wagmann
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Pulver
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, 24116 Kiel, Germany
| | - Folker Westphal
- State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Schleswig-Holstein, 24116 Kiel, Germany
| | - Markus R. Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
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3
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Lugo Vargas AF, Quevedo Buitrago WG, Chaves Silva DC, Martínes Suárez JF. Voltammetric Responses of a CYP2D6‐Based Biosensor to 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and the Synthetic Cathinone α‐pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α‐PVP). ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202202748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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4
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Simão AY, Antunes M, Cabral E, Oliveira P, Rosendo LM, Brinca AT, Alves E, Marques H, Rosado T, Passarinha LA, Andraus M, Barroso M, Gallardo E. An Update on the Implications of New Psychoactive Substances in Public Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:4869. [PMID: 35457736 PMCID: PMC9028227 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of new psychoactive substances has earned a great deal of attention, and several reports of acute poisoning and deaths have been issued involving, for instance, synthetic opiates. In recent years, there have been profound alterations in the legislation concerning consumption, marketing, and synthesis of these compounds; rapid alert systems have also been subject to changes, and new substances and new markets, mainly through the internet, have appeared. Their effects and how they originate in consumers are still mostly unknown, primarily in what concerns chronic toxicity. This review intends to provide a detailed description of these substances from the point of view of consumption, toxicokinetics, and health consequences, including case reports on intoxications in order to help researchers and public health agents working daily in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Y. Simão
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilha, Portugal
| | - Mónica Antunes
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, 1150-219 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Emanuel Cabral
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Patrik Oliveira
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Luana M. Rosendo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Ana Teresa Brinca
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Estefânia Alves
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Hernâni Marques
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilha, Portugal
| | - Tiago Rosado
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilha, Portugal
| | - Luís A. Passarinha
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | | | - Mário Barroso
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, 1150-219 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilha, Portugal; (A.Y.S.); (M.A.); (E.C.); (P.O.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (E.A.); (H.M.); (T.R.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilha, Portugal
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Carlier J, Berardinelli D, Montanari E, Sirignano A, Di Trana A, Busardò FP. 3F-α-pyrrolydinovalerophenone (3F-α-PVP) in vitro human metabolism: Multiple in silico predictions to assist in LC-HRMS/MS analysis and targeted/untargeted data mining. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2022; 1193:123162. [PMID: 35180546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2022.123162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones (SCs) constitute a heterogenous class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), structurally related to cathinone. SCs represent the widest NPS class, second to synthetic cannabinoids, accounting for approximately 160 different analogues with substitution at the phenyl group, the amine group, or the alkyl chain. In 2020, α-pyrrolidonophenone analogues were the most trafficked SCs, and were involved in many fatalities and intoxication cases. In particular, 3F-α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (3F-α-PVP) was the cause of the highest number of SC-related fatal intoxications in Sweden in 2018. Minor structural modifications are used to avoid legal controls and analytical detection, but may also induce different toxicological profile. Therefore, the identification of specific markers of consumption is essential to discriminate SCs in clinical and forensic toxicology. In this study, we assessed 3F-α-PVP metabolic profile. 3F-α-PVP was incubated with 10-donor-pooled human hepatocytes, LC-HRMS/MS analysis, and software-assisted data mining. This well-established workflow was completed by in silico metabolite predictions using three different freeware. Ten metabolites were identified after 3 h incubation, including hydrogenated, hydroxylated, oxidated, and N-dealkylated metabolites. A total of 51 phase I and II metabolites were predicted, among which 7 were detected in the incubations. We suggest 3F-α-PVP N-butanoic acid, 3F-α-PVP pentanol, and 3F-α-PVP 2-ketopyrrolidinyl-pentanol as specific biomarkers of 3F-α-PVP consumption. This is the first time that an N-ethanoic acid is detected in the metabolic pathway of a pyrrolidine SC, demonstrating the importance of a dual targeted/untargeted data mining strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Carlier
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Unit of Forensic Toxicology, via Tronto 10, 60126, Ancona AN, Italy; Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Legal Medicine, Unit of Forensic Toxicology, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome RM, Italy
| | - Diletta Berardinelli
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Unit of Forensic Toxicology, via Tronto 10, 60126, Ancona AN, Italy
| | - Eva Montanari
- Department of Legal medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Ascanio Sirignano
- University of Camerino, Department of Legal Medicine, School of Law, Via Andrea D'Accorso, 16, 62032, Camerino (MC), Italy
| | - Annagiulia Di Trana
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Unit of Forensic Toxicology, via Tronto 10, 60126, Ancona AN, Italy.
| | - Francesco P Busardò
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Unit of Forensic Toxicology, via Tronto 10, 60126, Ancona AN, Italy
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6
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Gavrilović I, Gelu Y, Abbate V. In Vitro Metabolic Study of Four Synthetic Cathinones: 4-MPD, 2-NMC, 4F-PHP and bk-EPDP. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020115. [PMID: 35208190 PMCID: PMC8877857 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of illicit drugs is exceedingly prevalent in society, and several of them can be illegally purchased from the internet. This occurrence is particularly augmented by the rapid emergence of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), which are sold and distributed as “legal highs”. Amongst NPS, the class of synthetic cathinones represents stimulant substances exhibiting similar effects to amphetamine and its derivatives. Despite potentially being less psychoactive than amphetamine, synthetic cathinones are harmful substances for humans, and little or no information is available regarding their pharmacology and toxicology. The present study investigated the in vitro metabolism and metabolites of four recent synthetic cathinones, namely, 1-(4-methylphenyl)-2-(methylamino)-pentanone (4-MPD), 1-(4-methylphenyl)-2-dimethylamino-propanone (2-NMC), 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl-hexanone (4F-PHP) and 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(ethylamino)-1-pentanone (bk-EPDP). Our in vitro metabolism study resulted in 24 identified metabolites, including both phase I and phase II metabolites. All metabolites were detected and identified using liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry and may serve as additional markers of abuse of these NPS in toxicological analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Gavrilović
- Drug Control Centre, King’s College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK;
| | - Yunita Gelu
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King’s College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK;
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King’s College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)207-83895
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7
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Camuto C, Guglielmelli A, De-Giorgio F, de la Torre X, Mazzarino M, Marti M, Botrè F. In vitro metabolic profile of mexedrone, a mephedrone analog, studied by high- and low-resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:269-276. [PMID: 34652887 PMCID: PMC9298855 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mexedrone is a synthetic cathinone structurally related to mephedrone, which belongs to the class of N‐alkyl cathinone derivatives, whose metabolic profile has not been fully clarified yet. This study considers the in vitro phase I metabolism of mexedrone, to pre‐select the most appropriate marker(s) of intake. Mexedrone was incubated in the presence of either human liver microsomes or single recombinant CYP450 isoforms. The metabolic profile was outlined by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to both high‐ and low‐resolution mass spectrometry. In detail, the phase I metabolic profile of mexedrone was initially defined by a time‐of‐flight analyzer, while the chemical structures of the detected metabolites and the potential presence of minor metabolites were subsequently studied by tandem mass spectrometry, using a triple quadrupole analyzer. The main phase I metabolic reactions were hydroxylation and N‐ and O‐dealkylation. The CYP450 isoforms most involved were CYP2C19, responsible for the formation of both hydroxylated and dealkylated metabolites, followed by CYP2D6 and CYP1A2, involved in the hydroxylation reactions only. Finally, a significant fraction of mexedrone unchanged was also detected. Based on this evidence, the most appropriate markers of intake are mexedrone unchanged and the hydroxylated metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Botrè
- Laboratorio Antidoping, FMSI, Rome, Italy.,REDs-Research and Expertise in anti-Doping Sciences, ISSUL-Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Lenzi M, Cocchi V, Gasperini S, Arfè R, Marti M, Hrelia P. Evaluation of Cytotoxic and Mutagenic Effects of the Synthetic Cathinones Mexedrone, α-PVP and α-PHP. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126320. [PMID: 34204826 PMCID: PMC8231654 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mexedrone, α-PVP and α-PHP are synthetic cathinones. They can be considered amphetamine-like substances with a stimulating effect. Actually, studies showing their impact on DNA are totally absent. Therefore, in order to fill this gap, aim of the present work was to evaluate their mutagenicity on TK6 cells. On the basis of cytotoxicity and cytostasis results, we selected the concentrations (35–100 µM) to be used in the further analysis. We used the micronucleus (MN) as indicator of genetic damage and analyzed the MNi frequency fold increase by flow cytometry. Mexedrone demonstrated its mutagenic potential contrary to the other two compounds; we then proceeded by repeating the analyzes in the presence of extrinsic metabolic activation in order to check if it was possible to totally exclude the mutagenic capacity for α-PVP and α-PHP. The results demonstrated instead the mutagenicity of their metabolites. We then evaluated reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction as a possible mechanism at the basis of the highlighted effects but the results did not show a statistically significant increase in ROS levels for any of the tested substances. Anyway, our outcomes emphasize the importance of mutagenicity evaluation for a complete assessment of the risk associated with synthetic cathinones exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Lenzi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.); (V.C.); (S.G.); (P.H.)
| | - Veronica Cocchi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.); (V.C.); (S.G.); (P.H.)
| | - Sofia Gasperini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.); (V.C.); (S.G.); (P.H.)
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Matteo Marti
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrizia Hrelia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.L.); (V.C.); (S.G.); (P.H.)
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9
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Soares J, Costa VM, Bastos MDL, Carvalho F, Capela JP. An updated review on synthetic cathinones. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:2895-2940. [PMID: 34100120 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cathinone, the main psychoactive compound found in the plant Catha edulis Forsk. (khat), is a β-keto analogue of amphetamine, sharing not only the phenethylamine structure, but also the amphetamine-like stimulant effects. Synthetic cathinones are derivatives of the naturally occurring cathinone that largely entered the recreational drug market at the end of 2000s. The former "legal status", impressive marketing strategies and their commercial availability, either in the so-called "smartshops" or via the Internet, prompted their large spread, contributing to their increasing popularity in the following years. As their popularity increased, the risks posed for public health became clear, with several reports of intoxications and deaths involving these substances appearing both in the social media and scientific literature. The regulatory measures introduced thereafter to halt these trending drugs of abuse have proved to be of low impact, as a continuous emergence of new non-controlled derivatives keep appearing to replace those prohibited. Users resort to synthetic cathinones due to their psychostimulant properties but are often unaware of the dangers they may incur when using these substances. Therefore, studies aimed at unveiling the pharmacological and toxicological properties of these substances are imperative, as they will provide increased expertise to the clinicians that face this problem on a daily basis. The present work provides a comprehensive review on history and legal status, chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, adverse effects and lethality in humans, as well as on the current knowledge of the neurotoxic mechanisms of synthetic cathinones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Soares
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Vera Marisa Costa
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Bastos
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Capela
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- FP-ENAS (Fernando Pessoa Energy, Environment and Health Research Unit), CEBIMED (Biomedical Research Centre), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal.
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10
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Protective Effect of Aldo-keto Reductase 1B1 Against Neuronal Cell Damage Elicited by 4'-Fluoro-α-pyrrolidinononanophenone. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:1360-1371. [PMID: 34043181 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to cathinone derivatives increases the risk of severe health hazards, whereas little is known about the detailed pathogenic mechanisms triggered by the derivatives. We have recently shown that treatment with α-pyrrolidinononanophenone (α-PNP, a highly lipophilic cathinone derivative possessing a long hydrocarbon main chain) provokes neuronal cell apoptosis and its 4'-fluorinated analog (F-α-PNP) potently augments the apoptotic effect. In this study, we found that neuronal SK-N-SH cell damage elicited by F-α-PNP treatment is augmented most potently by pre-incubation with an AKR1B1 inhibitor tolrestat, among specific inhibitors of four aldo-keto reductase (AKR) family members (1B1, 1C1, 1C2, and 1C3) expressed in the neuronal cells. In addition, forced overexpression of AKR1B1 remarkably lowered the cell sensitivity to F-α-PNP toxicity, clearly indicating that AKR1B1 protects from neurotoxicity of the derivative. Treatment of SK-N-SH cells with F-α-PNP resulted in a dose-dependent up-regulation of AKR1B1 expression and activation of its transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2. Metabolic analyses using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry revealed that AKR1B1 is hardly involved in the F-α-PNP metabolism. The F-α-PNP treatment resulted in production of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation byproduct 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE) in the cells. The enhanced HNE level was reduced by overexpression of AKR1B1, which also lessened the cell damage elicited by HNE. These results suggest that the AKR1B1-mediated neuronal cell protection is due to detoxification of HNE formed by F-α-PNP treatment, but not to metabolism of the derivative.
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11
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Schram J, Parrilla M, Sleegers N, Van Durme F, van den Berg J, van Nuijs ALN, De Wael K. Electrochemical profiling and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry characterization of synthetic cathinones: From methodology to detection in forensic samples. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1282-1294. [PMID: 33624933 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of new psychoactive drugs in the market demands rapid and accurate tools for the on-site classification of illegal and legal compounds with similar structures. Herein, a novel method for the classification of synthetic cathinones (SCs) is presented based on their electrochemical profile. First, the electrochemical profile of five common SC (i.e., mephedrone, ethcathinone, methylone, butylone, and 4-chloro-alpha-pyrrolidinovalerophenone) is collected to build calibration curves using square wave voltammetry on graphite screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). Second, the elucidation of the oxidation pathways, obtained by liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry, allows the pairing of the oxidation products to the SC electrochemical profile, providing a selective and robust classification. Additionally, the effect of common adulterants and illicit drugs on the electrochemical profile of the SC is explored. Interestingly, a cathodic pretreatment of the SPE allows the selective detection of each SC in presence of electroactive adulterants. Finally, the electrochemical approach is validated with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry by analyzing 26 confiscated samples from seizures and illegal webshops. Overall, the electrochemical method exhibits a successful classification of SC including structural derivatives, a crucial attribute in an ever-diversifying drug market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Schram
- AXES Research Group, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,NANOlab Center of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marc Parrilla
- AXES Research Group, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,NANOlab Center of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nick Sleegers
- AXES Research Group, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,NANOlab Center of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Durme
- Drugs and Toxicology Department, National Institute for Criminalistics and Criminology (NICC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jorrit van den Berg
- Team Illicit Drugs, The Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | - Karolien De Wael
- AXES Research Group, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,NANOlab Center of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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12
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Lopes BT, Caldeira MJ, Gaspar H, Antunes AMM. Metabolic Profile of Four Selected Cathinones in Microsome Incubations: Identification of Phase I and II Metabolites by Liquid Chromatography High Resolution Mass Spectrometry. Front Chem 2021; 8:609251. [PMID: 33511100 PMCID: PMC7835677 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.609251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Consumption of synthetic cathinones, the second largest class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) reported worldwide, represents a serious public health risk. One of the biggest challenges created by the rapid spread of NPS on the illegal drug market is the discovery of selective biomarkers for their detection in biological matrices, which is only possible through the study of their metabolic profile. The synthetic cathinones 4'-methyl-N,N-dimethylcathinone (4-MDMC), 4'-methyl-N,N-diethylcathinone (4-MDEC), 4'-chloro-α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (4Cl-PVP), and 4'-chloroethylcathinone (4-CEC) are NPS recently seized in Europe, and, with the exception of 4-CEC, no metabolism study was reported for these cathinones. With the ultimate goal of overcoming this gap, these cathinones were incubated in vitro in human and rat liver microsomes in the presence of Phase I and II (glucuronidation) co-factors, using α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (α-PVP) as positive control. The metabolite identification was performed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS). This allowed the identification of multiple Phase I and glucuronide metabolites of the selected cathinones. Additionally, a new glucuronide conjugate, derived from the recreational drug α-PVP, was herein identified for the first time. Importantly, we have demonstrated that 4-MDMC and 4-MDEC can act as prodrugs of the controlled substances 4-MMC and 4-MEC, respectively. The metabolites herein identified are expected to play an important role not only by acting as potential selective biomarkers of the intake of the synthetic cathinones selected for this study but also to understand their potential adverse effects and link these causative agents to toxicities, thereby helping in the treatment of non-fatal intoxications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz T. Lopes
- Centro de Química Estrutural (CQE), Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), ULisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria João Caldeira
- Laboratório de Polícia Científica da Polícia Judiciária (LPC/PJ), Novo edifício Sede da Polícia Judiciária, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Helena Gaspar
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre - Polytechnic of Leiria, Peniche, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M. M. Antunes
- Centro de Química Estrutural (CQE), Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), ULisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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13
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Schindler CW, Thorndike EB, Walters HM, Walther D, Rice KC, Baumann MH. Stereoselective neurochemical, behavioral, and cardiovascular effects of α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone enantiomers in male rats. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12842. [PMID: 31724254 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12842] [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: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The synthetic cathinone α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (α-PVP) continues to be abused despite being banned by regulatory agencies. The abused formulation of α-PVP is a racemic mixture consisting of two enantiomers, S-α-PVP and R-α-PVP. In this study, we investigated the neurochemical, behavioral, and cardiovascular effects of racemic α-PVP and its enantiomers in male rats. Racemic α-PVP blocked the uptake of both dopamine and norepinephrine ex vivo, but did not block the uptake of serotonin (5-HT), at their respective transporters. S-α-PVP was slightly more potent than racemic α-PVP, while R-α-PVP was 10 to 20 times less potent at blocking dopamine and norepinephrine uptake. In microdialysis studies, racemic and S-α-PVP increased extracellular dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens, but not levels of 5-HT. Racemic and S-α-PVP also increased locomotor activity. When tested at the same doses, S-α-PVP produced larger effects than racemic α-PVP. R-α-PVP also increased extracellular dopamine levels and locomotor activity, but only at 30 times higher doses than S-α-PVP. Racemic and S-α-PVP were self-administered by rats at 0.03 mg/kg/injection, whereas R-α-PVP was self-administered at a 10 times higher dose. Dose-effect determinations following acquisition suggested that R-α-PVP was at least 30 times less potent than S-α-PVP. Finally, racemic and S-α-PVP increased blood pressure and heart rate at doses approximately 30 times less than was required for R-α-PVP to produce similar effects. These results show that the neurochemical, behavioral, and cardiovascular effects of racemic α-PVP most likely reflect the actions of S isomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles W. Schindler
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Eric B. Thorndike
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Hailey M. Walters
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Donna Walther
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Kenner C. Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health Baltimore Maryland USA
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14
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Flakka: New Dangerous Synthetic Cathinone on the Drug Scene. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218185. [PMID: 33142953 PMCID: PMC7663692 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218185] [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: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
New psychoactive substances are being used as drugs and appear to be quite popular nowadays. Thanks to their specific properties, these drugs create inimitable experiences for intoxicated people. Synthetic cathinones are the most common compounds in these new drugs. Among them, α-pyrrolidopentadione (α-PVP), or “Flakka” (street name), is one of the most famous cathinone-designed drugs. Similar to other synthetic cathinone drugs, α-PVP can effectively inhibit norepinephrine and dopamine transmitters. The adverse reactions of α-PVP mainly include mania, tachycardia, and hallucinations. An increasing number of people are being admitted to emergency wards due to the consequences of their use. This work mainly summarizes the history, synthesis, pharmacology, toxicology, structure–activity relationship, metabolism, clinical process and health risks, poisoning and death, forensic toxicology, and legal status of α-PVP. We hope this review will help bring more attention to the exploration of this substance in order to raise awareness of its negative impacts on humans.
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15
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Prado E, Matos RR, de Lima Gomes GM, de Sá CBL, da Costa Nunes IK, de Souza Anselmo C, de Oliveira AS, do Amaral Cohen LS, de Siqueira DS, de Oliveira MAM, Ambrosio JCL, Costa GV, de Aquino Neto FR, Padilha MC, Pereira HMG. Metabolism of synthetic cathinones through the zebrafish water tank model: a promising tool for forensic toxicology laboratories. Forensic Toxicol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-020-00543-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study was to identify in vivo phase I metabolites of five psychoactive substances: N-ethylpentylone, ethylone, methylone, α-PVP and 4-CDC, using the in house developed experimental set-up zebrafish (Danio rerio) water tank (ZWT). High-resolution mass spectrometry allowed for metabolite identification. A pilot study of reference standard collection of N-ethylpentylone from the water tank was conducted.
Methods
ZWT consisted in 8 fish placed in a 200 mL recipient-containing water for a single cathinone. Experiments were performed in triplicate. Water tank samples were collected after 8 h and pretreated through solid-phase extraction. Separation and accurate-mass spectra of metabolites were obtained using liquid chromatography–high resolution tandem mass spectrometry.
Results
Phase I metabolites of α-PVP were identified, which were formed involving ketone reduction, hydroxylation, and 2″-oxo-pyrrolidine formation. The lactam derivative was the major metabolite observed for α-PVP in ZWT. N-Ethylpentylone and ethylone were transformed into phase I metabolites involving reduction, hydroxylation, and dealkylation. 4-CDC was transformed into phase I metabolites, reported for the first time, involving N-dealkylation, N,N-bis-dealkylation and reduction of the ketone group, the last one being the most intense after 8 h of the experiment.
Conclusions
ZWT model indicated to be very useful to study the metabolism of the synthetic cathinones, such as N-ethylpentylone, ethylone, α-PVP and 4-CDC. Methylone seems to be a potent CYP450 inhibitor in zebrafish. More experiments are needed to better evaluate this issue. Finally, this approach was quite simple, straightforward, extremely low cost, and fast for “human-like” metabolic studies of synthetic cathinones.
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16
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Kavanagh P, Gofenberg M, Shevyrin V, Dvorskaya O, Dowling G, Grigoryev A. Tentative identification of the phase I and II metabolites of two synthetic cathinones, MDPHP and α-PBP, in human urine. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:1442-1451. [PMID: 32621389 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2891] [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: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cathinone derivatives are one of the more prominent groups of new psychoactive substances in terms of the number of forensic case reports and the variety of chemical structures available. These substances often sold as "bath salts" are classified as psychostimulants. Using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry, the metabolites of two pyrrolidine cathinone derivatives, α-PBP and the less common MDPHP, were tentatively identified in urine samples collected from patients admitted to hospital following drug intoxications. The major metabolic pathways for α-PBP and MDPHP were similar to those of their more common analogs (α-PVP and MDPV). Metabolites arising from hydroxylation, reduction of the carbonyl group to an alcohol, oxidation to form a lactam and subsequent ring-opening, and a combination of these processes were identified. In addition, biotransformations of the benzodioxole moiety in MDPHP included demethylenation with subsequent methylation and carboxylation of the butyl group. The majority of the hydroxylated metabolites of α-PBP and MDPHP were found to be glucuronidated. Both α-PBP and MDPHP undergo extensive metabolism and the chromatographic peak areas of the metabolites were found to be comparable to or exceeded those of the parent substances. Metabolites resulting from demethylenation and subsequent methylation (MDPHP), reduction of carbonyl group (α-PBP), and oxidation to form a lactam combined with ring-opening (α-PBP and MDPHP) were found to be the most useful target analytes for the confirmation of ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierce Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Saint James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mariia Gofenberg
- Regional Clinical Psychiatric Hospital, Ekaterinburg, Russia.,Institute of Chemistry and Technology, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Vadim Shevyrin
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | | | - Geraldine Dowling
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Saint James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Science, Institute of Technology Sligo, Sligo, Ireland
| | - Andrej Grigoryev
- Forensic-Chemical Division, Bureau of Forensic-Medical Expertise, Moscow, Russia
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17
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Dubreil E, Sczubelek L, Burkina V, Zlabek V, Sakalli S, Zamaratskaia G, Hurtaud-Pessel D, Verdon E. In vitro investigations of the metabolism of Victoria pure blue BO dye to identify main metabolites for food control in fish. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 238:124538. [PMID: 31454745 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although banned, dyes, such as Victoria pure blue BO (VPBO), are illicitly used in aquaculture to treat or prevent infections due to their therapeutic activities. The present study examined the formation of phase I and phase II metabolites derived from VPBO using trout liver microsomes and S9 proteins. The well-known malachite green (MG) dye was also studied as a positive control and to compare its metabolism with that of VPBO. First, we optimised the incubation conditions for the detection of VPBO and MG metabolites by studying the formation of cytochrome P450 (CYP) substrates. Using the determined conditions (2 h at 20 °C), we incubated VPBO with trout microsomal and S9 fractions induced with β-naphtoflavone, and analysed the supernatant in a LC-LTQ-Orbitrap-HRMS system. The in vitro assays led to the detection of 16 VPBO metabolites from Phase I reactions, arising in particular from reactions with CYP1A. No metabolites were detected from Phase II reactions. The main metabolite detected, deethyl-VPBO, was CID-fragmented to determine its chemical structure, and thus recommend a potential biomarker for the control of VPBO in farmed fish foodstuffs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Dubreil
- ANSES Fougeres Laboratory, European Union Reference Laboratory for Antibiotic and Dye Residue in Food, CS 40608-Javene, F-35306, Fougeres, France.
| | - Luc Sczubelek
- ANSES Fougeres Laboratory, European Union Reference Laboratory for Antibiotic and Dye Residue in Food, CS 40608-Javene, F-35306, Fougeres, France
| | - Viktoriia Burkina
- University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters Vodnany, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 389 25, Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Zlabek
- University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters Vodnany, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 389 25, Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Sidika Sakalli
- University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters Vodnany, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Zatisi 728/II, 389 25, Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Galia Zamaratskaia
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Molecular Science, P.O. Box 7015, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dominique Hurtaud-Pessel
- ANSES Fougeres Laboratory, European Union Reference Laboratory for Antibiotic and Dye Residue in Food, CS 40608-Javene, F-35306, Fougeres, France
| | - Eric Verdon
- ANSES Fougeres Laboratory, European Union Reference Laboratory for Antibiotic and Dye Residue in Food, CS 40608-Javene, F-35306, Fougeres, France
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18
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Gonçalves JL, Alves VL, Aguiar J, Teixeira HM, Câmara JS. Synthetic cathinones: an evolving class of new psychoactive substances. Crit Rev Toxicol 2019; 49:549-566. [PMID: 31747318 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2019.1679087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones (SCat) are amphetamine-like psychostimulants that emerged onto drug markets as "legal" alternatives to illicit drugs such as ecstasy, cocaine, and amphetamines. Usually they are sold as "bath salts," "plant food," or "research chemicals," and rapidly gained popularity amongst drugs users due to their potency, low cost, and availability. In addition, internet drug sales have been replacing the old way of supplying drugs of abuse, contributing to their rapid spread. Despite the legislative efforts to control SCat, new derivatives continue to emerge on the recreational drugs market and their abuse still represents a serious public health issue. To date, about 150 SCat have been identified on the clandestine drugs market, which are one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances (NPS) monitored by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction. Similar to the classical stimulants, SCat affect the levels of catecholamines in the central nervous system, which results in their psychological, behavioral and toxic effects. Generally, the effects of SCat greatly differ from drug to drug and relatively little information is available about their pharmacology. The present work provides a review on the development of SCat as substances of abuse, current patterns of abuse and their legal status, chemical classification, known mechanisms of action, and their toxicological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- João L Gonçalves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Vera L Alves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Joselin Aguiar
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Helena M Teixeira
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, IP, Delegação Centro, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José S Câmara
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.,Faculdade de Ciências Exactas e da Engenharia, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
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19
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Diamanti K, Aalizadeh R, Alygizakis N, Galani A, Mardal M, Thomaidis NS. Wide-scope target and suspect screening methodologies to investigate the occurrence of new psychoactive substances in influent wastewater from Athens. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 685:1058-1065. [PMID: 31390696 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.06.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Almost all licit and illicit drugs consumed by the society end up either unchanged or as a mixture of metabolites in the sewage systems. The analysis of influent wastewater samples and the estimation of drug consumption is the field of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). A new trend of WBE is the estimation of the consumption of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), which are legal replacements of established narcotic and psychotropic drugs with slightly modified chemical structures and similar or new effects. To investigate the occurrence of NPS, 30 composite daily influent wastewater samples from the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of Athens (Greece) were collected in a four-year sampling campaign (2015-2018). A generic four-sorbent solid-phase extraction (SPE) sample preparation protocol able to retain compounds with wide physicochemical properties was used. Extracts were analyzed by liquid-chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) using target screening for 278 NPS and suspect screening for 451 NPS. Target screening method was validated for a subset of 49 representative NPS and illicit drugs with similar structures with the NPS. 24 NPS and related compounds were detected by target screening and two compounds were tentatively identified based on mass accuracy, prediction of retention time using in-house QSRR prediction models, isotopic pattern and HRMS/MS fragmentation, whereas the excreted mass loads were also calculated. The results indicated an occasional and low occurrence of NPS in wastewater during the week and over the years, whereas the estimation of the exact sources and the evaluation of the patterns in wastewater were critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Diamanti
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Reza Aalizadeh
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikiforos Alygizakis
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Galani
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Marie Mardal
- Section of Forensic Chemistry, , Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's vej 11, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Nikolaos S Thomaidis
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece.
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20
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Zaikina OL, Shilov VV, Lodyagin AN, Glushkov SI, Grigoryev AM. Determination of the Structures of Free and Glucuronidated Metabolites of α-Pyrrolidinovalerophenone in Human Urine by Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry with Accurate Mass Measurement. JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s1061934819020138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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21
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Vervliet P, Den Plas JV, De Nys S, Duca RC, Boonen I, Elskens M, Van Landuyt KL, Covaci A. Investigating the in vitro metabolism of the dental resin monomers BisGMA, BisPMA, TCD-DI-HEA and UDMA using human liver microsomes and quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. Toxicology 2019; 420:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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22
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Kolesnikova TO, Khatsko SL, Demin KA, Shevyrin VA, Kalueff AV. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: α-Pyrrolidinovalerophenone ("Flakka"). ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:168-174. [PMID: 30384587 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Flakka (alpha-pyrrolidinovalerophenone, α-PVP) is a new psychoactive substance, chemically close to cathinone, the primary psychoactive alkaloid of khat ( Catha edulis). Like other synthetic cathinones, α-PVP is a potent inhibitor of the dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. Its robust clinical effects include hallucinations, arousal, aggression/violence, and euphoria. In animal models, α-PVP evokes hyperlocomotion and aberrant/stereotypic behaviors. Here, we discuss the history, synthesis, pharmacological mechanisms, metabolism, abuse potential, and societal impact of α-PVP. Today, α-PVP is a tightly controlled substance, currently banned in the United States and other countries worldwide. However, the growing abuse and complex central nervous system (CNS) effects of α-PVP remain poorly understood, necessitating further pharmacological and pharmacogenetic studies of this drug. Its interesting pharmacological profile (co-inhibition of dopamine and norepinephrine, but not serotonin, transporters) also calls for further studies of α-PVP in animal models, to dissect serotonergic from other monoaminergic mechanisms of action of drugs of abuse. Finally, screening α-PVP and related compounds in vivo may foster discovery of new CNS drugs, including developing novel CNS drugs and identifying their molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Konstantin A. Demin
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, St. Petersburg 194156, Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | | | - Allan V. Kalueff
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing 400700, China
- Anatomy and Physiological Laboratory, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg 620002, Russia
- ZENEREI Research Center, Slidell, Louisiana 70458, United States
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, ITBM, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, St. Petersburg 194156, Russia
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Alves A, Erratico C, Lucattini L, Cuykx M, Ballesteros-Gómez A, Leonards PEG, Voorspoels S, Covaci A. Mass spectrometric identification of in vitro-generated metabolites of two emerging organophosphate flame retardants: V6 and BDP. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 212:1047-1057. [PMID: 30286534 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.08.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro metabolism of two emerging organophosphate flame retardants, namely tetrekis(2-chlorethyl)dichloroisopentyldiphosphate (V6) and bisphenol-A bis-diphenyl phosphate (BDP) in human liver microsomes (HLMs), HLM S9 fractions and in human serum. In particular, the role of cytochrome P450 (CYPs) enzymes and/or paraoxonases (PONs) in the formation of V6 and BDP phase I metabolites was studied. Mono-, di-hydroxylated and hydrolytic phase I metabolites of V6 were mainly formed by CYPs in HLMs, while hydrolytic and O-dealkylated phase I metabolites of BDP were generated by PONs mainly in serum experiments. Limited number of glucuronidated and sulfated phase II metabolites were also identified for the two chemicals. The activity of seven recombinant CYPs (rCYPs) including rCYP1A2, rCYP2B6, rCYP2C9, rCYP2C19, rCYP2D6, rCYP2E1 and rCYP3A4 in the in vitro phase I metabolism of V6 and BDP was investigated. The formation of V6 metabolites was catalyzed by several enzymes, especially rCYP1A2 that was responsible for the exclusive formation of two metabolites, one primary (M1) and its secondary metabolite (M9). For BDP, only one phase I metabolite (MM1) was catalyzed by the seven rCYPs. Collectively, these results indicate that CYPs have a predominant role in the metabolism of V6, while PONs have a predominant role in BDP in vitro metabolism. These results are a starting point for future studies involving the study of the toxicity, bioaccumulation and in vivo biomonitoring of V6 and BDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Alves
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Claudio Erratico
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Luisa Lucattini
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias Cuykx
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Ana Ballesteros-Gómez
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemistry and Nanochemistry, University of Córdoba, Marie Curie Building (Annex), Campus of Rabanales, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Pim E G Leonards
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Voorspoels
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
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Vervliet P, Mortelé O, Gys C, Degreef M, Lanckmans K, Maudens K, Covaci A, van Nuijs ALN, Lai FY. Suspect and non-target screening workflows to investigate the in vitro and in vivo metabolism of the synthetic cannabinoid 5Cl-THJ-018. Drug Test Anal 2018; 11:479-491. [PMID: 30242979 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The use of synthetic cannabinoids causes similar effects as Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol and long-term (ab)use can lead to health hazards and fatal intoxications. As most investigated synthetic cannabinoids undergo extensive biotransformation, almost no parent compound can be detected in urine, which hampers forensic investigations. Limited information about the biotransformation products of new synthetic cannabinoids makes the detection of these drugs in various biological matrices challenging. This study aimed to identify the main in vitro biotransformation pathways of 5Cl-THJ-018 and to compare these findings with an authentic urine sample of a 5Cl-THJ-018 user. The synthetic cannabinoid was incubated with pooled human liver microsomes and cytosol to simulate phase I and phase II biotransformations. Resulting extracts were analyzed with liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Three different data analysis workflows were applied to identify biotransformation products. A suspect screening workflow used an in-house database built from literature data and in silico biotransformation predictions. Two non-target screening workflows used a commercially available software and an open-source software for mass spectrometry data processing. A total of 23 in vitro biotransformation products were identified, with hydroxylation, oxidative dechlorination, and dihydrodiol formation pathways as the main phase I reactions. Additionally, five glucuronidated and three sulfated phase II conjugates were identified. The predominant in vivo pathway was through oxidative dechlorination and in total six metabolites of 5Cl-THJ-018 were identified. Biotransformation products both in vitro and in vivo were successfully identified using complementary suspect and non-target screening workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivier Mortelé
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Celine Gys
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Maarten Degreef
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Kristof Maudens
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Foon Yin Lai
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Gys C, Kovačič A, Huber C, Lai FY, Heath E, Covaci A. Suspect and untargeted screening of bisphenol S metabolites produced by in vitro human liver metabolism. Toxicol Lett 2018; 295:115-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Kinyua J, Negreira N, McCall AK, Boogaerts T, Ort C, Covaci A, van Nuijs ALN. Investigating in-sewer transformation products formed from synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 634:331-340. [PMID: 29627557 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.03.253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the role of biofilms on the stability of drug residues in wastewater. These factors are pertinent in wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) when estimating community-level drug use. However, there is scarce information on the biotransformation of drug residues in the presence of biofilms and the potential use of transformation products (TPs) as biomarkers in WBE. The purpose of this work was to investigate the formation of TPs in sewage reactors in the presence of biofilm mimicking conditions during in-sewer transport. Synthetic cathinones (methylenedioxypyrovalerone, methylone, mephedrone) and phenethylamines (4-methoxy-methamphetamine and 4-methoxyamphetamine) were incubated in individual reactors over a 24h period. Analysis of parent species and TPs was carried out using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToFMS). Identification of TPs was done using suspect and non-target workflows. In total, 18 TPs were detected and identified with reduction of β-keto group, demethylenation, demethylation, and hydroxylation reactions observed for the synthetic cathinones. For the phenethylamines, N- and O-demethylation reactions were identified. Overall, the experiments showed varying stability for the parent species in wastewater in the presence of biofilms. The newly identified isomeric forms of TPs particularly for methylone and mephedrone can be used as potential target biomarkers for WBE studies due to their specificity and detectability within a 24h residence time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Kinyua
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Noelia Negreira
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ann-Kathrin McCall
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Tim Boogaerts
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christoph Ort
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alexander L N van Nuijs
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
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Coccini T, Vecchio S, Crevani M, De Simone U. Cytotoxic Effects of 3,4-Catechol-PV (One Major MDPV Metabolite) on Human Dopaminergic SH-SY5Y Cells. Neurotox Res 2018; 35:49-62. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9924-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Matsuta S, Shima N, Kakehashi H, Kamata H, Nakano S, Sasaki K, Kamata T, Nishioka H, Miki A, Zaitsu K, Tsuchihashi H, Katagi M. Metabolism of α-PHP and α-PHPP in humans and the effects of alkyl chain lengths on the metabolism of α-pyrrolidinophenone-type designer drugs. Forensic Toxicol 2018; 36:486-497. [PMID: 29963212 PMCID: PMC6002437 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-018-0428-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to investigate the urinary metabolites of two common α-pyrrolidinophenones (PPs), α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) and α-pyrrolidinoheptanophenone (α-PHPP). This report also aims to discuss the effects of alkyl chain lengths on the metabolism of PPs. Methods Urinary metabolites of α-PHP and α-PHPP have been investigated by analyzing urine samples from their users (n = 13 each) by liquid chromatography–high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry using reference standards of the metabolites synthesized in our laboratory. Results and conclusions For both drugs, metabolites via reduction of the keto moiety (1-OH metabolites) and via oxidation of the pyrrolidine ring (2″-oxo metabolites) were identified, and those via oxidation of the terminal (ω) or penultimate (ω-1) positions of the alkyl chain were tentatively identified. Quantitative analysis indicated oxidation of the pyrrolidine ring to be the major metabolic pathway for α-PHP (side chain R: hexyl), but ω or ω-1 oxidation was the major metabolic pathway for α-PHPP (R: heptyl). Comparison of their metabolic profiles with those of analogs with a longer or shorter side chain (studied previously for R: butyl, pentyl, and octyl) revealed that the alkyl chain length strongly influences the metabolic pathway. In addition, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the quantification of metabolites of α-PHP and α-PHPP in authentic urine specimens collected from the users using their reference standards synthesized. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s11419-018-0428-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntaro Matsuta
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Noriaki Shima
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Hidenao Kakehashi
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Hiroe Kamata
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Shihoko Nakano
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Keiko Sasaki
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Tooru Kamata
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishioka
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Akihiro Miki
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
| | - Kei Zaitsu
- 2Department of Legal Medicine and Bioethics, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550 Japan
| | - Hitoshi Tsuchihashi
- 2Department of Legal Medicine and Bioethics, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550 Japan
| | - Munehiro Katagi
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Osaka Prefectural Police H.Q., 1-3-18 Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053 Japan
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Pierluigi S, Laura B, Attilio N, Gurjeet K B, Gloria P, Davide M, Borgherini G, Giovanni M, Fabrizio S, Perini G, Ornella C. "Marvin, the Paranoid Android": The Case of an Alpha-PVP User in the Expanding Galaxy of NPS. J Psychoactive Drugs 2018; 50:306-313. [PMID: 29768112 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2018.1447172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-PVP can be defined as a novel psychoactive substance (NPS)-more specifically, a novel synthetic cathinone with unpredictable stimulant effects in humans. "Marvin" arrived at a Dual Diagnosis Unit at Parco dei Tigli, Italy. He underwent a 30-day rehabilitation program to overcome his problematic Alpha-PVP use as a psychonaut. We conducted an online search to understand the properties of Alpha-PVP and its presence in scientific literature, reviewing official reports and the online drug market (e.g., fora, webpages). In the Dual Diagnosis Unit, Marvin completed the 30-day rehabilitation program that included assessments and group and individual cognitive behavioral therapy. Alpha-PVP is a synthetic cathinone with stimulant properties, available in the online market but with unpredictable effects in humans. The present case reports an important risk of psychosis in a psychonaut patient who arrived and declared its intense use before admission to our Unit. This article describes the psychopathological effects of the novel compound Alpha-PVP in a psychonaut patient. Patients attending clinics that have used Alpha-PVP pose a new challenge for traditional services of mental health and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simonato Pierluigi
- a School of Life and Medical Sciences , University of Hertfordshire , Hatfield , UK.,b Dual Diagnosis Unit , Casa di Cura Parco dei Tigli , Padova , Italy
| | - Bulsis Laura
- b Dual Diagnosis Unit , Casa di Cura Parco dei Tigli , Padova , Italy
| | - Negri Attilio
- c Postgraduate School of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Milan , Milan , Italy
| | - Bansal Gurjeet K
- a School of Life and Medical Sciences , University of Hertfordshire , Hatfield , UK
| | - Pessa Gloria
- b Dual Diagnosis Unit , Casa di Cura Parco dei Tigli , Padova , Italy
| | - Mioni Davide
- b Dual Diagnosis Unit , Casa di Cura Parco dei Tigli , Padova , Italy
| | | | - Martinotti Giovanni
- d Department of Neuroscience and Imaging , University "G. D'Annunzio , Chieti-Pescara , Italy
| | - Schifano Fabrizio
- a School of Life and Medical Sciences , University of Hertfordshire , Hatfield , UK
| | - Giulia Perini
- b Dual Diagnosis Unit , Casa di Cura Parco dei Tigli , Padova , Italy
| | - Corazza Ornella
- a School of Life and Medical Sciences , University of Hertfordshire , Hatfield , UK
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In vitro Phase I and Phase II metabolism of the new designer benzodiazepine cloniprazepam using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2018; 153:158-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2018.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Nóbrega L, Dinis-Oliveira RJ. The synthetic cathinone α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (α-PVP): pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic clinical and forensic aspects. Drug Metab Rev 2018. [PMID: 29540067 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2018.1448867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS), often referred as 'legal highs' or 'designer drugs', are derivatives and analogs of existing psychoactive drugs that are introduced in the recreational market to circumvent existing legislation on drugs of abuse. This work aims to review the state-of-the-art regarding chemical, molecular pharmacology, and in vitro and in vivo data on toxicokinetics of the potent synthetic cathinone α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (α-PVP or flakka or zombie drug). Chemical, pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical effects of α-PVP were searched in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine) and governmental websites without limitation of the period. α-PVP is a wide spread and easy to get special type of synthetic cathinone with seemingly powerful cocaine-like stimulant effects, high brain penetration, high liability for abuse and with increased risk of adverse effects such as tachycardia, agitation, hypertension, hallucinations, delirium, mydriasis, self-injury, aggressive behavior, and suicidal ideations. α-PVP undergoes extensive metabolism via different pathways and the α-PVP itself or its metabolites β-hydroxy-α-PVP and α-PVP lactam represent the main targets for toxicological analysis in urine. There is a limited knowledge regarding the short- and long-term effects of α-PVP and metabolites, and pharmacogenetic influence, hence further clinical and forensic toxicological studies are required. Moreover, since α-PVP cannot be detected with classic routine analysis procedures, statements on the frequency of their consumption cannot be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Nóbrega
- a Department of Public Health, Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine , University of Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- a Department of Public Health, Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine , University of Porto , Porto , Portugal.,b UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Porto , Porto , Portugal.,c Department of Sciences, IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies , University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL , Gandra , Portugal
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Guillou C, Reniero F, Vicente JL, Holland M, Kolar K, Chassaigne H, Tirendi S, Schepers H. Collaboration of the Joint Research Centre and European Customs Laboratories for the Identification of New Psychoactive Substances. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:91-98. [PMID: 29792142 PMCID: PMC6110040 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180523122717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of psychoactive designer drugs has significantly increased over the last few years. Customs officials are responsible for the control of products entering the European Union (EU) market. This control applies to chemicals in general, pharmaceutical products and medicines. Numerous products imported from non-EU countries, often declared as 'bath salts' or 'fertilizers', contain new psychoactive substance (NPS). REVIEW These are not necessarily controlled under international law, but may be subject to monitoring in agreement with EU legislation. This situation imposes substantial challenges, for example, for the maintenance of spectral libraries used for their detection by designated laboratories. The chemical identification of new substances, with the use of powerful instrumentation, and the time needed for detailed analysis and interpretation of the results, demands considerable commitment. The EU Joint Research Centre endeavors to provide scientific support to EU Customs laboratories to facilitate rapid identification and characterisation of seized samples. In addition to analysing known NPS, several new chemical entities have also been identified. Frequently, these belong to NPS classes already notified to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) by the European Early- Warning System (EWS). CONCLUSION The aim of this paper is to discuss the implementation of workflow mechanisms that are in place in order to facilitate the monitoring, communication and management of analytical data. The rapid dissemination of this information between control authorities strives to help protect EU citizens against the health risks posed by harmful substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Guillou
- Address correspondence to this author at the European Commission, Directorate General Joint Research Centre, Directorate F - Health, Consumers and Reference Materials via E. Fermi, 2749, I-21020 Ispra (VA) - Italy; Tel: +39 0332 785678; E-mail:
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Causanilles A, Kinyua J, Ruttkies C, van Nuijs ALN, Emke E, Covaci A, de Voogt P. Qualitative screening for new psychoactive substances in wastewater collected during a city festival using liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 184:1186-1193. [PMID: 28672699 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.06.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The inclusion of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in the wastewater-based epidemiology approach presents challenges, such as the reduced number of users that translates into low concentrations of residues and the limited pharmacokinetics information available, which renders the choice of target biomarker difficult. The sampling during special social settings, the analysis with improved analytical techniques, and data processing with specific workflow to narrow the search, are required approaches for a successful monitoring. This work presents the application of a qualitative screening technique to wastewater samples collected during a city festival, where likely users of recreational substances gather and consequently higher residual concentrations of used NPS are expected. The analysis was performed using liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. Data were processed using an algorithm that involves the extraction of accurate masses (calculated based on molecular formula) of expected m/z from an in-house database containing about 2,000 entries, including NPS and transformation products. We positively identified eight NPS belonging to the classes of synthetic cathinones, phenethylamines and opioids. In addition, the presence of benzodiazepine analogues, classical drugs and other licit substances with potential for abuse was confirmed. The screening workflow based on a database search was useful in the identification of NPS biomarkers in wastewater. The findings highlight the specific classical drugs and low NPS use in the Netherlands. Additionally, meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP), 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B), and 4-fluoroamphetamine (FA) were identified in wastewater for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Causanilles
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94248, 1090 GE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Juliet Kinyua
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christoph Ruttkies
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, IPB Halle, Department of Stress and Developmental Biology, Weinberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Alexander L N van Nuijs
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Erik Emke
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pim de Voogt
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94248, 1090 GE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Grafinger KE, Hädener M, König S, Weinmann W. Study of the in vitro and in vivo metabolism of the tryptamine 5-MeO-MiPT using human liver microsomes and real case samples. Drug Test Anal 2017; 10:562-574. [PMID: 28677880 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The synthetic tryptamine 5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-MiPT) has recently been abused as a hallucinogenic drug in Germany and Switzerland. This study presents a case of 5-MeO-MiPT intoxication and the structural elucidation of metabolites in pooled human liver microsomes (pHLM), blood, and urine. Microsomal incubation experiments were performed using pHLM to detect and identify in vitro metabolites. In August 2016, the police encountered a naked man, agitated and with aggressive behavior on the street. Blood and urine samples were taken at the hospital and his premises were searched. The obtained blood and urine samples were analyzed for in vivo metabolites of 5-MeO-MiPT using liquid chromatography-high resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS). The confiscated pills and powder samples were qualitatively analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), LC-HRMS/MS, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). 5-MeO-MiPT was identified in 2 of the seized powder samples. General unknown screening detected cocaine, cocaethylene, methylphenidate, ritalinic acid, and 5-MeO-MiPT in urine. Seven different in vitro phase I metabolites of 5-MeO-MiPT were identified. In the forensic case samples, 4 phase I metabolites could be identified in blood and 7 in urine. The 5 most abundant metabolites were formed by demethylation and hydroxylation of the parent compound. 5-MeO-MiPT concentrations in the blood and urine sample were found to be 160 ng/mL and 3380 ng/mL, respectively. Based on the results of this study we recommend metabolites 5-methoxy-N-isopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-NiPT), 5-hydroxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine (5-OH-MiPT), 5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine-N-oxide (5-MeO-MiPT-N-oxide), and hydroxy-5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine (OH-5-MeO-MiPT) as biomarkers for the development of new methods for the detection of 5-MeO-MiPT consumption, as they have been present in both blood and urine samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianne Hädener
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan König
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Weinmann
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry, University of Bern, Switzerland
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Richter LHJ, Maurer HH, Meyer MR. New psychoactive substances: Studies on the metabolism of XLR-11, AB-PINACA, FUB-PB-22, 4-methoxy-α-PVP, 25-I-NBOMe, and meclonazepam using human liver preparations in comparison to primary human hepatocytes, and human urine. Toxicol Lett 2017; 280:142-150. [PMID: 28782580 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.07.901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are an increasing problem in clinical and forensic toxicology. The knowledge of their metabolism is important for toxicological risk assessment and for developing toxicological urine screenings. Considering the huge numbers of NPS annually appearing on the market, metabolism studies should be realized in a fast, simple, cost efficient, and reliable way. Primary human hepatocytes (PHH) were recommended to be the gold standard for in vitro metabolism studies as they are expected to contain natural enzyme clusters, co-substrates, and drug transporters. In addition, they were already successfully used for metabolism studies of NPS. However, they also have disadvantages such as high costs and limited applicability without special equipment. The aims of the present study were therefore first to investigate exemplarily the phase I and phase II metabolism of six NPS (XLR-11, AB-PINACA, FUB-PB-22, 4-methoxy-α-PVP, 25-I-NBOMe, and meclonazepam) from different drug classes using pooled human S9 fraction (pS9) or pooled human liver microsomes combined with cytosol (pHLM/pHLC) after addition of the co-substrates for the main metabolic phase I and II reactions. Second to compare results to published data generated using primary human hepatocytes and human urine samples. Results of the incubations with pS9 or pHLM/pHLC were comparable in number and abundance of metabolites. Formation of metabolites, particularly after multi-step reactions needed a longer incubation time. However, incubations using human liver preparations resulted in a lower number of total detected metabolites compared to PHH, but they were still able to allow the identification of the main human urinary excretion products. Human liver preparations and particularly the pooled S9 fraction could be shown to be a sufficient and more cost-efficient alternative in context of metabolism studies also for developing toxicological urine screenings. It might be recommended to use the slightly cheaper pS9 fraction instead of a pHLM/pHLC combination. As formation of some metabolites needed a long incubation time, two sampling points at 60 and 360min should be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian H J Richter
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
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37
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Krotulski AJ, Mohr ALA, Papsun DM, Logan BK. Metabolism of novel opioid agonists U-47700 and U-49900 using human liver microsomes with confirmation in authentic urine specimens from drug users. Drug Test Anal 2017; 10:127-136. [PMID: 28608586 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the number of adverse events, including death, involving novel opioids has continued to increase, providing additional and sustained challenges for forensic and medical communities. Identification of emerging novel opioids can be challenging, compounded by detection windows and unknown metabolic profiles. In this study, human liver microsomes were used for the generation of in vitro metabolic profiles of U-47700 and U-49900. Generated metabolites were analyzed via a SCIEX TripleTOF® 5600+ quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer and resulting data files were processing using MetabolitePilot™. Characterized metabolites were verified in vivo by analysis of authentic human urine specimens collected after analytically confirmed cases of overdose involving U-47700 or U-49900. In total, four metabolites were identified and present in urine specimens for U-47700, and five metabolites for U-49900. N-Desmethyl-U-47700 was determined to be the primary metabolite of U-47700. Parent U-47700 was identified in all urine specimens. N-Desmethyl-U-47700 and N,N-didesmethyl-U-47700 were structurally confirmed for the first time during this study following acquisition of standard reference material. N-Desethyl-U-49900 was determined to be the primary metabolite of U-49900 following microsomal incubations, while N,N-didesethyl-N-desmethyl-U-49900 was the most abundant in a urine specimen. Similarities in metabolic transformation were identified between U-47700 and U-49900, resulting in a common metabolite and isomeric species. These phenomena should be considered in cases involving U-47700 or U-49900. This study is the first to map the metabolic profiles of U-47700 and U-49900 using human liver microsomes, as well as the first to report any literature involving U-49900 and analysis of case specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amanda L A Mohr
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA.,NMS Labs, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
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38
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Luethi D, Liechti ME, Krähenbühl S. Mechanisms of hepatocellular toxicity associated with new psychoactive synthetic cathinones. Toxicology 2017. [PMID: 28645576 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are a new class of psychostimulant substances. Rarely, they can cause liver injury but associated mechanisms are not completely elucidated. In order to increase our knowledge about mechanisms of hepatotoxicity, we investigated the effect of five frequently used cathinones on two human cell lines. Bupropion was included as structurally related drug used therapeutically. In HepG2 cells, bupropion, MDPV, mephedrone and naphyrone depleted the cellular ATP content at lower concentrations (0.2-1mM) than cytotoxicity occurred (0.5-2mM), suggesting mitochondrial toxicity. In comparison, methedrone and methylone depleted the cellular ATP pool and induced cytotoxicity at similar concentrations (≥2mM). In HepaRG cells, cytotoxicity and ATP depletion could also be demonstrated, but cytochrome P450 induction did not increase the toxicity of the compounds investigated. The mitochondrial membrane potential was decreased in HepG2 cells by bupropion, MDPV and naphyrone, confirming mitochondrial toxicity. Bupropion, but not the other compounds, uncoupled oxidative phosphorylation. Bupropion, MDPV, mephedrone and naphyrone inhibited complex I and II of the electron transport chain, naphyrone also complex III. All four mitochondrial toxicants were associated with increased mitochondrial ROS and increased lactate production, which was accompanied by a decrease in the cellular total GSH pool for naphyrone and MDPV. In conclusion, bupropion, MDPV, mephedrone and naphyrone are mitochondrial toxicants impairing the function of the electron transport chain and depleting cellular ATP stores. Since liver injury is rare in users of these drugs, affected persons must have susceptibility factors rendering them more sensitive for these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Centre of Applied Human Toxicology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Centre of Applied Human Toxicology, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Krähenbühl
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Centre of Applied Human Toxicology, Basel, Switzerland.
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López-Arnau R, Buenrostro-Jáuregui M, Muñoz-Villegas P, Rodríguez-Morató J, Ciudad-Roberts A, Duart L, Camarasa J, De la Torre R, Pubill D, Escubedo E. The combination of MDPV and ethanol results in decreased cathinone and increased alcohol levels. Study of such pharmacological interaction. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 76:19-28. [PMID: 28219712 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a new psychostimulant cathinone acting as a selective dopamine transporter blocker. Due to the concomitant consumption of ethanol (EtOH) and new psychoactive substances, it is of interest to explore a possible pharmacological interaction between MDPV and EtOH. In locomotor activity assays, EtOH (1g/kg i.p.) elicited a reduction in the stimulant effect induced by low doses of MDPV (0.1-0.3mg/kg, s.c.) in rats, jointly with a decrease in blood and brain MDPV concentrations. Experiments in rat liver microsomes showed different effects depending on the [MDPV]/[EtOH] relationship, evidencing, at certain concentrations, the enhancing effect of EtOH on MDPV metabolism. These suggest that EtOH interacts with MDPV at microsomal level, increasing its metabolic rate. The interaction between both substances was also supported by results in plasma EtOH concentration, which were significantly increased by MDPV, in such a manner that EtOH elimination rate was significantly reduced. The possible toxicological impact of this phenomenon deserves further investigation. In contrast, the rewarding properties of MDPV were unaltered by EtOH. Microdialysis experiments verified that, in the NAcc, both substances could also act synergistically, in such a manner that extracellular dopamine concentrations are maintained. Finally, if the psychostimulant effect induced by MDPV decreased with EtOH, it could favor the boosting and re-dosing in search of the desired effects. However, as the rewarding effect of each dose of the substance would not decrease, the addictive liability could increase considerably. Moreover, we must warn about the increase in EtOH concentrations when consumed concomitantly with MDPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- R López-Arnau
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Buenrostro-Jáuregui
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University Enrique Díaz de León, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - P Muñoz-Villegas
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Rodríguez-Morató
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (CEXS-UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Ciudad-Roberts
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Duart
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Camarasa
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R De la Torre
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (CEXS-UPF), Barcelona, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - D Pubill
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - E Escubedo
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmacology Section, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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40
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Richter LHJ, Flockerzi V, Maurer HH, Meyer MR. Pooled human liver preparations, HepaRG, or HepG2 cell lines for metabolism studies of new psychoactive substances? A study using MDMA, MDBD, butylone, MDPPP, MDPV, MDPB, 5-MAPB, and 5-API as examples. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2017; 143:32-42. [PMID: 28601767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2017.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Metabolism studies play an important role in clinical and forensic toxicology. Because of potential species differences in metabolism, human samples are best suitable for elucidating metabolism. However, in the case of new psychoactive substances (NPS), human samples of controlled studies are not available. Primary human hepatocytes have been described as gold standard for in vitro metabolism studies, but there are some disadvantages such as high costs, limited availability, and variability of metabolic enzymes. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate and compare the metabolism of six methylenedioxy derivatives (MDMA, MDBD, butylone, MDPPP, MDPV, MDPB) and two bioisosteric analogues (5-MAPB, 5-API) using pooled human liver microsomes (pHLM) combined with cytosol (pHLC) or pooled human liver S9 fraction (pS9) all after addition of co-substrates for six phase I and II reactions. In addition, HepaRG and HepG2 cell lines were used. Results of the different in vitro tools were compared to each other, to corresponding published data, and to metabolites identified in human urine after consumption of MDMA, MDPV, or 5-MAPB. Incubations with pHLM plus pHLC showed similar results as pS9. A more cost efficient model for prediction of targets for toxicological screening procedures in human urine should be identified. As expected, the incubations with HepaRG provided better results than those with HepG2 concerning number and signal abundance of the metabolites. Due to easy handling without special equipment, incubations with pooled liver preparations should be the most suitable alternative to find targets for toxicological screening procedures for methylenedioxy derivatives and bioisosteric analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian H J Richter
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Veit Flockerzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans H Maurer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus R Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
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41
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Logan BK, Mohr AL, Friscia M, Krotulski AJ, Papsun DM, Kacinko SL, Ropero-Miller JD, Huestis MA. Reports of Adverse Events Associated with Use of Novel Psychoactive Substances, 2013–2016: A Review. J Anal Toxicol 2017; 41:573-610. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkx031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Alves A, Giovanoulis G, Nilsson U, Erratico C, Lucattini L, Haug LS, Jacobs G, de Wit CA, Leonards PEG, Covaci A, Magner J, Voorspoels S. Case Study on Screening Emerging Pollutants in Urine and Nails. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:4046-4053. [PMID: 28293951 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b05661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Alternative plasticizers and flame retardants (FRs) have been introduced as replacements for banned or restricted chemicals, but much is still unknown about their metabolism and occurrence in humans. We identified the metabolites formed in vitro for four alternative plasticizers (acetyltributyl citrate (ATBC), bis(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHTP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA)), and one FR (2,2-bis (chloromethyl)-propane-1,3-diyltetrakis(2-chloroethyl) bisphosphate (V6)). Further, these compounds and their metabolites were investigated by LC/ESI-Orbitrap-MS in urine and finger nails collected from a Norwegian cohort. Primary and secondary ATBC metabolites had detection frequencies (% DF) in finger nails ranging from 46 to 95%. V6 was identified for the first time in finger nails, suggesting that this matrix may also indicate past exposure to FRs as well as alternative plasticizers. Two isomeric forms of DEHTP primary metabolite were highly detected in urine (97% DF) and identified in finger nails, while no DPHP metabolites were detected in vivo. Primary and secondary DEHA metabolites were identified in both matrices, and the relative proportion of the secondary metabolites was higher in urine than in finger nails; the opposite was observed for the primary metabolites. As many of the metabolites present in in vitro extracts were further identified in vivo in urine and finger nail samples, this suggests that in vitro assays can reliably mimic the in vivo processes. Finger nails may be a useful noninvasive matrix for human biomonitoring of specific organic contaminants, but further validation is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Alves
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV) , Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Georgios Giovanoulis
- IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute , SE-100 31, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University , SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Nilsson
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University , SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Claudio Erratico
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Luisa Lucattini
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University Amsterdam , De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Line S Haug
- Domain of Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health , Lovisenberggata 8, 0456 Oslo, Norway
| | - Griet Jacobs
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV) , Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Cynthia A de Wit
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University , SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pim E G Leonards
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University Amsterdam , De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jörgen Magner
- IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute , SE-100 31, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefan Voorspoels
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV) , Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
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Mardal M, Bischoff M, Ibáñez M, Ruffing U, Hernández F, Meyer MR. Microbial biotransformation of five pyrrolidinophenone-type psychoactive substances in wastewater and a wastewater isolatedPseudomonas putidastrain. Drug Test Anal 2017; 9:1522-1536. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Mardal
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology; Saarland University; Homburg Germany
| | - Markus Bischoff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene; Saarland University; Homburg (Saar) Germany
| | - María Ibáñez
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Castellón Spain
| | - Ulla Ruffing
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene; Saarland University; Homburg (Saar) Germany
| | - Félix Hernández
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water; University Jaume I; Castellón Spain
| | - Markus R. Meyer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology; Saarland University; Homburg Germany
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44
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Byrska B, Stanaszek R, Zuba D. Alpha-PVP as an active component of herbal highs in Poland between 2013 and 2015. Drug Test Anal 2017; 9:1267-1274. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bogumiła Byrska
- Institute of Forensic Research; Westerplatte 9, 31-033 Krakow Poland
| | - Roman Stanaszek
- Institute of Forensic Research; Westerplatte 9, 31-033 Krakow Poland
| | - Dariusz Zuba
- Institute of Forensic Research; Westerplatte 9, 31-033 Krakow Poland
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46
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Kinyua J, Negreira N, Miserez B, Causanilles A, Emke E, Gremeaux L, de Voogt P, Ramsey J, Covaci A, van Nuijs ALN. Qualitative screening of new psychoactive substances in pooled urine samples from Belgium and United Kingdom. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 573:1527-1535. [PMID: 27575425 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.08.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Concerns about new psychoactive substances (NPS) are increasing due to the rising frequency of serious intoxications. Analysis of biological fluids (urine) is necessary to get reliable information about the use of these substances. However, it is a challenging task due to the lack of analytical standards and the dynamic character of the NPS market. In the present work, a qualitative screening of NPS was carried out in 23 pooled urine samples collected from a city center in the UK and festivals in the UK and Belgium. The analytical method was based on data-independent acquisition mode using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. An in-house library was used with >1500 entries corresponding to NPS, classical drugs and metabolites. All samples contained 53 and 28 compounds of interest from the UK and Belgium respectively. Of the different compounds detected, about 70% were confirmed using retention time and product ions while the remaining compounds were identified using elucidated fragmentation pathways. The highest numbers of NPS identified in both countries were from the cathinone and phenylethylamine families, with a higher number being detected in samples from the festival in the UK. Moreover, several cathinone metabolites in human urine were detected and identified. The screening method proved useful to detect a large number of compounds and determine the use of NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Kinyua
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Noelia Negreira
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bram Miserez
- TICTAC Communications Ltd., St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW170RE, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Causanilles
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Erik Emke
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Lies Gremeaux
- Programme Drugs, Operational Direction of Public health and Surveillance, Scientific Institute for Public Health, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pim de Voogt
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, Chemical Water Quality and Health, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94248, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John Ramsey
- TICTAC Communications Ltd., St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW170RE, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alexander L N van Nuijs
- Toxicological Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
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New psychoactive substances: an overview on recent publications on their toxicodynamics and toxicokinetics. Arch Toxicol 2016; 90:2421-44. [PMID: 27665567 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1812-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This review article covers English-written and PubMed-listed review articles and original studies published between January 2015 and April 2016 dealing with the toxicodynamics and toxicokinetics of new psychoactive substances. Compounds covered include stimulants and entactogens, synthetic cannabinoids, tryptamines, NBOMes, phencyclidine-like drugs, benzodiazepines, and opioids. First, an overview and discussion is provided on timely review articles followed by an overview and discussion on recent original studies. Both sections are then concluded by an opinion on these latest developments. This review shows that the NPS market is still highly dynamic and that the data published on their toxicodynamics and toxicokinetics can hardly keep pace with the appearance of new entities. However, data available are very helpful to understand and predict how NPS may behave in severe intoxication. The currently best-documented parameter is the in vitro metabolism of NPS, a prerequisite to allow detection of NPS in biological matrices in cases of acute intoxications or chronic consumption. However, additional data such as their chronic toxicity are still lacking.
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48
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Characterization of in vitro metabolites of methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV): An N-oxide metabolite formation mediated by flavin monooxygenase. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2016; 131:160-166. [PMID: 27592254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2016.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) has emerged in recent years as a recreational substance with psychostimulant properties. In this study, in vitro metabolites of MDPV were characterized based on liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC/QTOF MS). MDPV was incubated with human liver microsomes, human recombinant cDNA-expressed cytochrome P450 enzymes and flavin monooxygenase (FMO). MDPV was metabolized to yield eight metabolites (M1-M8) with major metabolic reactions such as demethylenation and oxidation. Among them, M6 was assigned as an N-oxide metabolite. FMO was found to be a principal enzyme responsible for the formation of M6; FMO1 and FMO3 were the main enzymes involved in N-oxidation of MDPV.
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Valente MJ, Araújo AM, Bastos MDL, Fernandes E, Carvalho F, Guedes de Pinho P, Carvalho M. Editor's Highlight: Characterization of Hepatotoxicity Mechanisms Triggered by Designer Cathinone Drugs (β-Keto Amphetamines). Toxicol Sci 2016; 153:89-102. [PMID: 27255387 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of cathinone designer drugs in recreational settings has been associated with severe toxic effects, including liver damage. The precise mechanisms by which cathinones induce hepatotoxicity and whether they act by common pathways remain to be elucidated. Herein, we assessed the toxicity of the cathinones methylone, pentedrone, 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and 4-methylethcathinone (4-MEC) in primary rat hepatocytes (PRH) and HepaRG cells, and compared with that of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). MDPV and pentedrone were significantly more toxic than MDMA, while methylone was the least cytotoxic compound. Importantly, PRH revealed to be the most sensitive experimental model and was thus used to explore the mechanisms underlying the observed toxicity. All drugs elicited the formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS), but more markedly for methylone, pentedrone and 4-MEC. GSH depletion was also a common effect at the highest concentration tested, whereas only MDPV and pentedrone caused a significant decrease in ATP levels. The antioxidants ascorbic acid or N-acetyl-L-cysteine partially attenuated the observed cell death. All cathinones triggered significant caspase activation and apoptosis, which was partially reversed by the caspase inhibitor Ac-LETD-CHO. In conclusion, the present data shows that (1) cathinones induce in vitro hepatotoxic effects that vary in magnitude among the different analogues, (2) oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction play a role in cathinones-induced hepatic injury, and (3) apoptosis appears to be an important pathway of cell death elicited by these novel drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Valente
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal;
| | - Ana Margarida Araújo
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Bastos
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Fernandes
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Guedes de Pinho
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Márcia Carvalho
- *UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; FP-ENAS, CEBIMED, Fundação Ensino e Cultura Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal
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50
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Ellefsen KN, Concheiro M, Huestis MA. Synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetics, analytical methods, and toxicological findings from human performance and postmortem cases. Drug Metab Rev 2016; 48:237-65. [PMID: 27249313 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2016.1188937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are commonly abused novel psychoactive substances (NPS). We present a comprehensive systematic review addressing in vitro and in vivo synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetics, analytical methods for detection and quantification in biological matrices, and toxicological findings from human performance and postmortem toxicology cases. Few preclinical administration studies examined synthetic cathinone pharmacokinetic profiles (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion), and only one investigated metabolite pharmacokinetics. Synthetic cathinone metabolic profiling studies, primarily with human liver microsomes, elucidated metabolite structures and identified suitable biomarkers to extend detection windows beyond those provided by parent compounds. Generally, cathinone derivatives underwent ketone reduction, carbonylation of the pyrrolidine ring, and oxidative reactions, with phase II metabolites also detected. Reliable analytical methods are necessary for cathinone identification in biological matrices to document intake and link adverse events to specific compounds and concentrations. NPS analytical methods are constrained in their ability to detect new emerging synthetic cathinones due to limited commercially available reference standards and continuous development of new analogs. Immunoassay screening methods are especially affected, but also gas-chromatography and liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry confirmation methods. Non-targeted high-resolution-mass spectrometry screening methods are advantageous, as they allow for retrospective data analysis and easier addition of new synthetic cathinones to existing methods. Lack of controlled administration studies in humans complicate interpretation of synthetic cathinones in biological matrices, as dosing information is typically unknown. Furthermore, antemortem and postmortem concentrations often overlap and the presence of other psychoactive substances are typically found in combination with cathinones derivatives, further confounding result interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla N Ellefsen
- a Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP , National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore , MD , USA ;,b Program in Toxicology , University of Maryland Baltimore , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Marta Concheiro
- c Department of Sciences, John Jay College of Criminal Justice , City University of New York , New York , NY , USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- a Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP , National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
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