1
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Hirshfeld surfaces analysis and DFT study of the structure and IR spectrum of N-ethyl-2-amino-1-(4-chlorophenyl)propan-1-one (4-CEC) hydrochloride. COMPUT THEOR CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.comptc.2021.113455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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2
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Sisco E, Burns A, Moorthy AS. Development and evaluation of a synthetic cathinone targeted gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method. J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:1919-1928. [PMID: 34190349 PMCID: PMC10010760 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
To address challenges associated with the increased prevalence of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs), laboratories often adopt new techniques or new methods with the goal of obtaining more detailed chemical information with a higher level of confidence. To demonstrate how new methods applied to existing techniques can be a viable approach, a targeted gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method for synthetic cathinones was developed. To create the method, a range of GC-MS parameters were first investigated using a seven-component test solution with the goal of minimizing compounds with overlapping acceptance windows by maximizing retention time differences within a reasonable runtime. Once developed, the targeted method was evaluated through several studies and was compared to a general GC-MS confirmatory method. The method produced a twofold increase in retention time differences of the test solution compounds with a 3.83-min shorter runtime than the general method. Limitations of the method were also studied by analyzing an additional forty-eight cathinones to identify instances where definitive compound identification may not be possible due to overlapping acceptance windows and mass spectra. Thirty-eight pairs of compounds had retention times differences of less than 2% and, of those thirty-eight, one pair had indistinguishable mass spectra. A set of case samples were also analyzed using the method to evaluate suitability for casework. An increase in split ratio was required to obtain acceptable sensitivity. The development of this method is part of a larger project to measure benefits and drawbacks of different drug chemistry workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Sisco
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Amber Burns
- Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, Pikesville, MD, USA
| | - Arun S Moorthy
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
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3
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Niebel A, Westendorf L, Krumbiegel F, Hartwig S, Parr MK, Tsokos M. Prevalence and concentrations of new designer stimulants, synthetic opioids, benzodiazepines, and hallucinogens in postmortem hair samples: A 13-year retrospective study. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:110-121. [PMID: 34435749 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3150] [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: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hair samples are frequently analyzed in order to characterize consumption patterns of drugs. However, the interpretation of new psychoactive substance (NPS) findings in hair remains difficult because of lacking data for comparison. In this study, selected postmortem hair samples (n = 1203) from 2008 to 2020 were reanalyzed for synthetic cathinones, piperazines, phenethylamines, hallucinogens, benzodiazepines and opioids to evaluate prevalence data and concentration ranges. Hair samples were extracted using a two-step extraction procedure and analyzed using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. Overall NPSs were detected in 381 cases (31.6%). Many cases were tested positive for more than one NPS in the same time span. A variety of NPS with a large range of concentrations was observed. For better comparability and interpretation of positive cases in routine work, quantitation data for 13 NPS were calculated as percentiles. The most frequently detected NPS in this study were N-ethylamphetamine, α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone, mephedrone, benzedrone, metamfepramone, and 4-fluoroamphetamine. In conclusion, a high prevalence of these drugs was observed from postmortem hair samples. The results show a growing use of many different NPSs by mainly young drug-using adults. Consequently, NPS screening procedures should be included in forensic toxicology. Our quantitative data may support other toxicologists in their assessment of NPS hair concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Niebel
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lena Westendorf
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Franziska Krumbiegel
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Hartwig
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kristina Parr
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Tsokos
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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4
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Trinklein TJ, Thapa M, Lanphere LA, Frost JA, Koresch SM, Aldstadt JH. Sequential injection analysis coupled to on-line benchtop proton NMR: Method development and application to the determination of synthetic cathinones in seized drug samples. Talanta 2021; 231:122355. [PMID: 33965022 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are a class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), an emerging group of analogues to traditional illicit drugs which are functionalized to circumvent legal regulations. The analytical investigation of NPS by traditional methods, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), is challenging because newly emerging NPS may not yet appear in spectral libraries and because of the inability to determine certain positional isomers. Low-field or "benchtop" proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) is an alternative that provides significant qualitative information but is particularly susceptible to matrix interferences. To this end, the development of a Sequential Injection Analysis (SIA) method which uses solid-phase extraction (SPE) to remove interfering matrix components prior to NMR determination is described. Factors including the type of SPE sorbent, column dimensions, and sample loading and elution conditions were examined. Several cathinone simulants (primary, secondary, and tertiary amines), "DEA exempt" cathinone standards, as well as authentic case samples were studied. The selectivity of the SIA-NMR-UV method was investigated against a broad range of "cutting agents" and was found to successfully remove all compounds tested with the exception of other basic drugs (e.g., acetaminophen). The limit of detection and reproducibility of the method were optimized using a Plackett-Burman screening design and Sequential Simplex optimization. Using a UV detector for dual (in series) quantification, the multivariate-optimized method produced a method limit of detection (3σ) for the cathinone simulant Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) of 23 μmol L-1, and a calibration model, in terms of UV peak area, of Area = 0.19 [PPA, mmol L-1] - 0.04. The optimized method generated ~2 mL of waste per day, and had a footprint of ~1 m2 Finally, the multivariate-optimized SIA-NMR-UV method was successfully applied to several more case samples and the cathinones were definitively identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Trinklein
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Malati Thapa
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Lexie A Lanphere
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - John A Frost
- Molecular Spectroscopy Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Joseph H Aldstadt
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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5
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Kranenburg RF, Stuyver LI, de Ridder R, van Beek A, Colmsee E, van Asten AC. Deliberate evasion of narcotic legislation: Trends visualized in commercial mixtures of new psychoactive substances analyzed by GC-solid deposition-FTIR. Forensic Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2021.100346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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6
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Frison G, Zancanaro F, Frasson S, Quadretti L, Agnati M, Vlassich F, Gagliardi G, Salerno TMG, Donato P, Mondello L. Analytical Characterization of 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC in Seized Products and Biosamples: The Role of LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS and Solid Deposition GC-FTIR. Front Chem 2021; 8:618339. [PMID: 33628763 PMCID: PMC7897676 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.618339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the phencyclidine (PCP) and synthetic cathinone analogs present on the street market, 3-methoxyphencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP) is one of the most popular dissociative hallucinogen drugs, while 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC) is a commonly encountered psychostimulant. Numerous 3-MeO-PCP- and 3-MMC-related intoxication cases have been reported worldwide. Identification of the positional isomers of MeO-PCP and MMC families are particularly challenging for clinical and forensic laboratories; this is mostly due to their difficult chromatographic separation (particularly when using liquid chromatography–LC) and similar mass spectrometric behaviors. 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC were identified in two powders, detained by two subjects and seized by the police, by different analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography-high-resolution accurate-mass Orbitrap mass spectrometry (LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS), and solid deposition gas chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (sd-GC-FTIR). LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS allowed us to assign the elemental formulae C18H27NO (MeO-PCP) and C11H15NO (MMC) through accurate mass measurement of the two MH+ ions, and the comparison of experimental and calculated MH+ isotopic patterns. However, MH+ collision-induced product ions spectra were not conclusive in discriminating between the positional isomers [(3-MeO-PCP vs. 4-MeO-PCP) and (3-MMC vs. 4-MMC and 2-MMC)]. Likewise, sd-GC-FTIR easily allowed us to differentiate between the MeO-PCP and MMC positional isomers unambiguously, confirming the presence of 3-MeO-PCP and 3-MMC, due to the high-quality match factor of the experimental FTIR spectra against the target FTIR spectra of MeO-PCP and MMC isomers in a dedicated library. 3-MeO-PCP (in contrast to 3-MMC) was also detected in blood and urine samples of both subjects and analyzed in the context of routine forensic casework by LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS following a simple deproteinization step. In addition, this untargeted approach allowed us to detect dozens of phase I and phase II 3-MeO-PCP metabolites in all biological specimens. Analysis of the extracted samples by sd-GC-FTIR revealed the presence of 3-MeO-PCP, thus confirming the intake of such specific methoxy-PCP isomer in both cases. These results highlight the effectiveness of LC-HRAM-Orbitrap-MS and sd-GC-FTIR data in attaining full structural characterization of the psychoactive drugs, even in absence of reference standards, in both non-biological and biological specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giampietro Frison
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene and Forensic Toxicology, DMPO Department, AULSS 3, Venice, Italy
| | - Flavio Zancanaro
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene and Forensic Toxicology, DMPO Department, AULSS 3, Venice, Italy
| | - Samuela Frasson
- Laboratory of Environmental Hygiene and Forensic Toxicology, DMPO Department, AULSS 3, Venice, Italy
| | - Laura Quadretti
- Emergency Department Unit, Madonna della Salute Hospital, AULSS 5, Porto Viro (Rovigo), Italy
| | - Michele Agnati
- Emergency Department Unit, Madonna della Salute Hospital, AULSS 5, Porto Viro (Rovigo), Italy
| | - Francesca Vlassich
- Intensive Care Unit, Madonna della Salute Hospital, AULSS 5, Porto Viro (Rovigo), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gagliardi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, AULSS 5, Porto Viro (Rovigo), Italy
| | - Tania Maria Grazia Salerno
- BeSep S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paola Donato
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Luigi Mondello
- BeSep S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Chromaleont S.r.l., c/o Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Research Unit of Food Science and Nutrition, Department of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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7
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Overview of the major classes of new psychoactive substances, psychoactive effects, analytical determination and conformational analysis of selected illegal drugs. OPEN CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2021-0196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The misuse of psychoactive substances is attracting a great deal of attention from the general public. An increase use of psychoactive substances is observed among young people who do not have enough awareness of the harmful effects of these substances. Easy access to illicit drugs at low cost and lack of effective means of routine screening for new psychoactive substances (NPS) have contributed to the rapid increase in their use. New research and evidence suggest that drug use can cause a variety of adverse psychological and physiological effects on human health (anxiety, panic, paranoia, psychosis, and seizures). We describe different classes of these NPS drugs with emphasis on the methods used to identify them and the identification of their metabolites in biological specimens. This is the first review that thoroughly gives the literature on both natural and synthetic illegal drugs with old known data and very hot new topics and investigations, which enables the researcher to use it as a starting point in the literature exploration and planning of the own research. For the first time, the conformational analysis was done for selected illegal drugs, giving rise to the search of the biologically active conformations both theoretically and using lab experiments.
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8
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Computational study of IR, Raman, and NMR spectra of 4-methylmethcathinone drug. J Mol Model 2021; 27:3. [PMID: 33387084 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-020-04658-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Molecular electronic structure, IR, UV, and NMR spectra of the most popular cathinone, known as mephedrone or 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC), is studied thoroughly by quantum chemical calculation in terms of the density functional theory (DFT). Geometry optimization of 4-MMC and its hydrochloride complex is performed with the B3LYP functional, and all vibrational frequencies are analyzed in all details. On this background, the IR and Raman spectra are interpreted. The importance of low-frequency terahertz and Raman spectra is stressed for distinguishing of various MMC isomers. The UV spectrum is calculated by time-dependent DFT method which allows complete interpretation of intense absorption bands at 270 and 210 nm as combinations of various ππ*, nπ*, and charge transfer excitations in amino-phenyl moieties. Very informative analysis of UV absorption and NMR spectra provides useful details on the structure-activity relationship for mephedrone molecule.
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9
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Kranenburg RF, Verduin J, Stuyver LI, de Ridder R, van Beek A, Colmsee E, van Asten AC. Benefits of derivatization in GC–MS-based identification of new psychoactive substances. Forensic Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2020.100273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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10
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Larabi IA, Fabresse N, Etting I, Nadour L, Pfau G, Raphalen JH, Philippe P, Edel Y, Alvarez JC. Prevalence of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and conventional drugs of abuse (DOA) in high risk populations from Paris (France) and its suburbs: A cross sectional study by hair testing (2012-2017). Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 204:107508. [PMID: 31670189 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study is to describe the prevalence of NPS and conventional DOA in Paris and its suburbs over a six-year period using hair testing approach. METHOD Hair was sampled in patients admitted to different departments of Paris hospitals between 2012 and 2017. Two high-risk populations were mainly considered: 1) drug-dependent and 2) acutely intoxicated patients. Segmental hair analysis was performed by validated LC-MS/MS method to screen for DOA and 83 NPS. RESULTS 480 patients (280 M/200 F, 15-70 years) were included. 141 patients tested positive for NPS (99 M/42 F; median age: 33). NPS prevalence was 29%, that of amphetamines, cocaine and opioids were 32%, 38.5% and 52%, respectively. 27 NPS were identified, 4-MEC and mephedrone (number of cases n = 24 each) were the most detected cathinones. JWH-122 (n = 1) was the only detected synthetic cannabinoid while ketamine (n = 104) was present in numerous NPS users (67%). 3-fluorofentanyl (n = 1), furanylfentanyl (n = 1), N-ethylpentylone (n = 2), pentedrone (n = 2), mexedrone (n = 1), methcathinone (n = 3), 6-APDB (n = 2), TFMPP (n = 2), 2-CE (n = 1), 3,4-MD-αPHP (n = 1) and dextromethorphan (n = 27) were identified for the first time in hair. Users were found to have more than one NPS in 53% of cases, mostly in combination with conventional DOA. The number of detected NPS rose from 5 in 2012 to 42 in 2017. A broad range of hair concentrations (0.001-318 ng/mg) was found, but the low median concentrations seem to show an occasional exposure more than chronic use. CONCLUSION NPS screening should be assessed in routine clinical practice, especially in high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Larabi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University, Inserm U-1173, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, 104, Raymond Poincaré Blvd., 92380 Garches, France
| | - N Fabresse
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University, Inserm U-1173, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, 104, Raymond Poincaré Blvd., 92380 Garches, France
| | - I Etting
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University, Inserm U-1173, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, 104, Raymond Poincaré Blvd., 92380 Garches, France
| | - L Nadour
- Talan Solutions, 21 Dumont d'Urville Street, 75016, Paris, France
| | - G Pfau
- Addiction Clinic, Pitié Salpétrière Hospital, AP-HP, 47-83 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - J H Raphalen
- Intensive Care Unit, AP-HP, Necker Hospital, 149 Sèvres Street, 75015 Paris, France
| | - P Philippe
- Intensive Care Unit, AP-HP, Necker Hospital, 149 Sèvres Street, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Y Edel
- Addiction Clinic, Pitié Salpétrière Hospital, AP-HP, 47-83 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - J C Alvarez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University, Inserm U-1173, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, 104, Raymond Poincaré Blvd., 92380 Garches, France.
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11
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Kranenburg RF, García-Cicourel AR, Kukurin C, Janssen HG, Schoenmakers PJ, van Asten AC. Distinguishing drug isomers in the forensic laboratory: GC-VUV in addition to GC-MS for orthogonal selectivity and the use of library match scores as a new source of information. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 302:109900. [PMID: 31382222 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.109900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Currently, forensic drug experts are facing chemical identification challenges with the increasing number of new isomeric forms of psychoactive substances occurring in case samples. Very similar mass spectra for these substances could easily result in misidentification using the regular GC-MS screening methods in combination with colorimetric testing in forensic laboratories. Building on recent work from other groups, this study demonstrates that GC-VUV is a powerful technique for drug isomer differentiation, showing reproducible and discriminating spectra for aromatic ring-isomers. MS and VUV show complementary selectivity as VUV spectra are ring-position specific whereas MS spectra are characteristic for the amine moieties of the molecule. VUV spectra are very reproducible showing less than 0.1‰ deviation in library match scores and therefore small spectral differences suffice to confidently distinguish isomers. In comparison, MS match scores gave over 10‰ deviation and showed significant overlap in match score ranges for several isomers. This poses a risk for false positive identifications when assigning compounds based on retention time and GC-MS mass spectrum. A strategy was developed, based on Kernel Density Estimations of match scores, to construct Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves and estimate likelihood ratios (LR values) with respect to the chemical differentiation of drug related isomers. This approach, and the added value of GC-VUV is demonstrated with the chemical analysis of several samples from drug case work from the Amsterdam area involving both compounds listed in Dutch drug legislation (3,4-MDMA; 3,4-MDA; 4-MMC; 4-MEC and 4-FA) as well as their unlisted and thus uncontrolled isomers (2,3-MDMA; 2,3-MDA; 2- and 3-MMC; 2- and 3-MEC and 2- and 3-FA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F Kranenburg
- Dutch National Police, Unit Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Kabelweg 25, Amsterdam 1014 BA, Netherlands; Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands.
| | - Alan R García-Cicourel
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands
| | - Corina Kukurin
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands
| | - Hans-Gerd Janssen
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands; Unilever Research and Development, P.O. Box 114, Vlaardingen 3130 AC, Netherlands
| | - Peter J Schoenmakers
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands
| | - Arian C van Asten
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands; Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, Netherlands
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12
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Cheng WC, Wong WC. Forensic drug analysis of chloro-N,N-dimethylcathinone (CDC) and chloroethcathinone (CEC): Identification of 4-CDC and 4-CEC in drug seizures and differentiation from their ring-substituted positional isomers. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 298:268-277. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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13
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The novel psychoactive substance 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC or metaphedrone): A review. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 295:54-63. [PMID: 30572220 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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14
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Walther D, Shalabi AR, Baumann MH, Glennon RA. Systematic Structure-Activity Studies on Selected 2-, 3-, and 4-Monosubstituted Synthetic Methcathinone Analogs as Monoamine Transporter Releasing Agents. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:740-745. [PMID: 30354055 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Methcathinone analogs are appearing on the clandestine market at a rate nearly out-pacing the ability of investigators to examine them on an individual basis. To formulate structure-activity relationship (SAR) generalities, we examined the releasing ability of several simple methcathinone analogs at the three monoamine transporters (i.e., the dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin transporters, DAT, NET, and SERT, respectively) using in vitro assay methods. The analogs included methcathinone and 14 other compounds monosubstituted at the 2-, 3-, or 4-position. In general, (a) the 2-substituted analogs were less potent than either the 3- or 4-substituted analogs, (b) the 3- and 4-substituted analogs were relatively similar in potency, (c) methcathinone was the most selective as a DAT-releasing agent, and (d) the 3- and 4-CF3 analogs were the least DAT-selective. For the 15 compounds, there was a significant correlation ( r > 0.9) between DAT and NET potency, suggesting relatively similar structure-activity relationships (at least for the compounds examined here). Several of the compounds have appeared on the clandestine market since our studies were initiated, and the present results provide new information on how they might act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna Walther
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Abdelrahman R. Shalabi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Richard A. Glennon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
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15
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Santos A, Dutra L, Menezes L, Santos M, Barison A. Forensic NMR spectroscopy: Just a beginning of a promising partnership. Trends Analyt Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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16
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Proactive response to tackle the threat of emerging drugs: Synthesis and toxicity evaluation of new cathinones. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 290:146-156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Levitas MP, Andrews E, Lurie I, Marginean I. Discrimination of synthetic cathinones by GC–MS and GC–MS/MS using cold electron ionization. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 288:107-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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18
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Couto RAS, Gonçalves LM, Carvalho F, Rodrigues JA, Rodrigues CMP, Quinaz MB. The Analytical Challenge in the Determination of Cathinones, Key-Players in the Worldwide Phenomenon of Novel Psychoactive Substances. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2018; 48:372-390. [DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2018.1439724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa A. S. Couto
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Moreira Gonçalves
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - José A. Rodrigues
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cecília M. P. Rodrigues
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M. Beatriz Quinaz
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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19
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Spálovská D, Králík F, Kohout M, Jurásek B, Habartová L, Kuchař M, Setnička V. Structure determination of butylone as a new psychoactive substance using chiroptical and vibrational spectroscopies. Chirality 2018; 30:548-559. [DOI: 10.1002/chir.22825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dita Spálovská
- Department of Analytical Chemistry; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - František Králík
- Department of Analytical Chemistry; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kohout
- Department of Organic Chemistry; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - Bronislav Jurásek
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
- Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Habartová
- Department of Analytical Chemistry; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
- Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Setnička
- Department of Analytical Chemistry; University of Chemistry and Technology; Prague 6 Czech Republic
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20
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Carlsson A, Sandgren V, Svensson S, Konradsson P, Dunne S, Josefsson M, Dahlén J. Prediction of designer drugs: Synthesis and spectroscopic analysis of synthetic cathinone analogs that may appear on the Swedish drug market. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1076-1098. [PMID: 29426062 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The use of hyphenated analytical techniques in forensic drug screening enables simultaneous identification of a wide range of different compounds. However, the appearance of drug seizures containing new substances, mainly new psychoactive substances (NPS), is steadily increasing. These new and other already known substances often possess structural similarities and consequently they exhibit spectral data with slight differences. This situation has made the criteria that ensure indubitable identification of compounds increasingly important. In this work, 6 new synthetic cathinones that have not yet appeared in any Swedish drug seizures were synthesized. Their chemical structures were similar to those of already known cathinone analogs of which 42 were also included in the study. Hence, a total of 48 synthetic cathinones making up sets of homologous and regioisomeric compounds were used to challenge the capabilities of various analytical techniques commonly applied in forensic drug screening, ie, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), gas chromatography-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (GC-FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Special attention was paid to the capabilities of GC-MS and GC-FTIR to distinguish between the synthetic cathinones and the results showed that neither GC-MS nor GC-FTIR alone can successfully differentiate between all synthetic cathinones. However, the 2 techniques proved to be complementary and their combined use is therefore beneficial. For example, the structural homologs were better differentiated by GC-MS, while GC-FTIR performed better for the regioisomers. Further, new spectroscopic data of the synthesized cathinone analogs is hereby presented for the forensic community. The synthetic work also showed that cathinone reference compounds can be produced in few reaction steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Carlsson
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Veronica Sandgren
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Stefan Svensson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Simon Dunne
- Swedish National Forensic Centre - NFC, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Martin Josefsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Sweden
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21
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Yovanovich AC, Goodpaster JV, Minto RE. Identification of 1-(2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-5-yl)-2-(ethylamino)pentan-1-one (bk-IVP) in a Seized Drug Exhibit. J Forensic Sci 2017; 63:915-920. [PMID: 28886216 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13642] [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: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To circumvent the law by evading regulation and obscuring their identities in routine analyses, numerous substituted cathinones have entered the illicit drug market. These compounds have been coined "bath salts" by users. In the described case, the laboratory received an unknown white powder for controlled substances identification. The sample could not be immediately identified using standard methods and procedures. Ultimately, the structure was elucidated using GC-MS, NMR, FTIR, GC-SPIR, UV, and color tests to be 1-(2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-5-yl)-2-(ethylamino)pentan-1-one (bk-IVP), a cathinone analog with a rarely observed nonoxygenated bicyclic ring system. Features of spectra and chemical tests are reported that distinguish this class of cathinones from heterocyclic analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John V Goodpaster
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Forensic and Investigative Sciences (FIS) Program, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), 402 North Blackford Street, LD 326, Indianapolis, IN, 46202
| | - Robert E Minto
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), 402 North Blackford Street, LD 326, Indianapolis, IN, 46202
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22
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Apirakkan O, Frinculescu A, Shine T, Parkin MC, Cilibrizzi A, Frascione N, Abbate V. Analytical characterization of three cathinone derivatives, 4-MPD, 4F-PHP and bk-EPDP, purchased as bulk powder from online vendors. Drug Test Anal 2017; 10:372-378. [PMID: 28544816 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Novel emerging drugs of abuse, also referred as new psychoactive substances, constitute an ever-changing mixture of chemical compounds designed to circumvent legislative controls by means of chemical modifications of previously banned recreational drugs. One such class, synthetic cathinones, namely β-keto derivatives of amphetamines, has been largely abused over the past decade. A number of new synthetic cathinones are detected each year, either in bulk powders/crystals or in biological matrices. It is therefore important to continuously monitor the supply of new synthetic derivatives and promptly report them. By using complementary analytical techniques (i.e. one- and two-dimensional NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS, HRMS and HPLC-UV), this study investigates the detection, identification and full characterization of 1-(4-methylphenyl)-2-(methylamino)pentanone (4-methylpentedrone, 4-MPD), 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)hexanone (4F-PHP) and 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(ethylamino)-1-pentanone (bk-EPDP), three emerging cathinone derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orapan Apirakkan
- Analytical & Environmental Sciences Division, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anca Frinculescu
- TICTAC Communications Ltd, Room 1.159 Jenner Wing, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Trevor Shine
- TICTAC Communications Ltd, Room 1.159 Jenner Wing, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Mark C Parkin
- Analytical & Environmental Sciences Division, King's College London, London, UK
- Drug Control Centre, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Nunzianda Frascione
- Analytical & Environmental Sciences Division, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Drug Control Centre, King's College London, London, UK
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
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23
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Brephedrone: A new psychoactive substance seized in Brazil. Forensic Sci Int 2017; 275:302-307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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24
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Maas A, Sydow K, Madea B, Hess C. Separation of ortho, meta and para isomers of methylmethcathinone (MMC) and methylethcathinone (MEC) using LC-ESI-MS/MS: Application to forensic serum samples. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2017; 1051:118-125. [PMID: 28262446 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2017.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Separation and identification of positional isomers is an important issue in forensic toxicology, particularly in the context of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Despite the structural similarity, positional isomers often show different pharmacological properties and thus can exhibit dramatic differences with respect to their toxicity. Additionally, besides these pharmacological and toxicological effects, the legal status is also of great importance. We present a sensitive and selective LC-MS/MS method to separate the ortho, meta and para isomers of methylmethcathinone (MMC) and methylethcathinone (MEC) using a core-shell biphenyl analytical column. Reliability of the method was confirmed under consideration of the validation parameters selectivity, linearity, accuracy and precision, analytical limits, processed sample stability, matrix effects and recovery. Linearity was demonstrated over the entire calibration range from 5 to 250ng/ml with the use of a 1/x2 weighting. Appropriate quantification and detection limits (LLOQ=5ng/ml, LOD<2ng/ml) could be achieved. Application of the method to real serum samples collected between June 2014 and August 2016 revealed the proof of a recent MMC or MEC consumption, respectively, in eight cases. Isomers of MMC could be detected in three of these eight cases, of which two were positive for 3-MMC and one was positive for 2-MMC. The other samples were tested positively for 3-MEC. In none of the samples 4-MMC, 2-MEC or 4-MEC could be detected. Only substances that were not governmentally controlled at that time could be detected, reflecting the rapid response of the recreational drug market to newly enacting drug laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Maas
- University Bonn, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Konrad Sydow
- University Bonn, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Burkhard Madea
- University Bonn, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Cornelius Hess
- University Bonn, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Stiftsplatz 12, 53111 Bonn, Germany.
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25
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Botanas CJ, Yoon SS, de la Peña JB, Dela Peña IJ, Kim M, Woo T, Seo JW, Jang CG, Park KT, Lee YH, Lee YS, Kim HJ, Cheong JH. The abuse potential of two novel synthetic cathinones with modification on the alpha-carbon position, 2-cyclohexyl-2-(methylamino)-1-phenylethanone (MACHP) and 2-(methylamino)-1-phenyloctan-1-one (MAOP), and their effects on dopaminergic activity. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 153:160-167. [PMID: 28063946 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.12.017] [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: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The recreational use of synthetic cathinones has dramatically increased in recent years, which is partly due to easy accessibility and ability of synthetic cathinones to exert rewarding effects similar to cocaine and methamphetamine. Many synthetic cathinones have already been scheduled in several countries; however, novel and diverse synthetic cathinones are emerging at an unprecedented rate, often outpacing regulatory processes. Recently, designer modifications of the basic cathinone molecule are usually performed on the alpha-carbon position. In this study, we designed and synthesized two novel synthetic cathinones with substituents on alpha-carbon position, [1] 2-cyclohexyl-2-(methylamino)-1-phenylethanone (MACHP), and [2] 2-(methylamino)-1-phenyloctan-1-one (MAOP). Then, we evaluated their rewarding and reinforcing effects through the conditioned place preference (CPP) in mice and self-administration (SA) test in rats. Locomotor activity was also assessed in mice during daily MACHP or MAOP treatment for 7days and drug challenge. qRT-PCR analyses were conducted to determine their effects on dopamine-related genes in the striatum. MACHP and MAOP produced CPP at 10 and 30mg/kg. In the SA test, MACHP (1mg/kg/infusion), but not MAOP, was self-administered. Both MACHP and MAOP induced locomotor sensitization in mice. qRT-PCR analyses showed that MACHP and MAOP reduced dopamine transporter gene expression in the striatum. These data indicate that MACHP and MAOP may have rewarding properties, which might be attributed to their ability to affect the dopaminergic activity. These findings may be useful in predicting the abuse potential and hasten the regulation of future cathinone entities with similar modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrislean Jun Botanas
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Shoon Yoon
- Center for Safety Pharmacology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 305-343, Republic of Korea
| | - June Bryan de la Peña
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Irene Joy Dela Peña
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeseon Woo
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Joung-Wook Seo
- Center for Safety Pharmacology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 305-343, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Park
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hun Lee
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarangro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea.
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26
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Kolodziejczyk W, Kar S, Hill GA. Conformational analysis, energy profile, and structural-electronic properties evaluation of mephedrone derivatives employing quantum-mechanical models. Struct Chem 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11224-016-0878-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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27
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Identification and derivatization of selected cathinones by spectroscopic studies. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 266:416-426. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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28
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Fujii H, Waters B, Hara K, Kashiwagi M, Matsusue A, Kubo SI. Simple regioisomeric differentiation of 2-, 3- and 4-methyl-α-pyrrolidinobutiophenones by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry using bromination. Forensic Toxicol 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-016-0329-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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29
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Qian Z, Jia W, Li T, Liu C, Hua Z. Identification and analytical characterization of four synthetic cathinone derivatives iso-4-BMC, β-TH-naphyrone, mexedrone, and 4-MDMC. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:274-281. [PMID: 27352812 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) have gained much popularity on the global market over the last number of years. The synthetic cathinone family is one of the most prominent groups and this paper reports on the analytical properties of four synthetic cathinone derivatives: (1) 1-(4-bromophenyl)-1-(methylamino)propan-2-one (iso-4-BMC or iso-brephedrone), (2) 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)-1-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-yl)pentan-1-one (β-TH-naphyrone), (3) 3-methoxy-2-(methylamino)-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one (mexedrone), and (4) 2-(dimethylamino)-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one (4-MDMC). These identifications were based on liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. To our knowledge, no chemical or pharmacological data about compounds 1-3 have appeared until now, making this the first report on these compounds. The Raman and GC-MS data of 4 have been reported, but this study added the LC-MS and NMR data for additional characterization. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Qian
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jia
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Li
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Cuimei Liu
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Zhendong Hua
- National Narcotics Laboratory, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center of the Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
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30
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Zuba D, Adamowicz P. Distinction of constitutional isomers of mephedrone by chromatographic and spectrometric methods. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2016.1167240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Zuba
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Adamowicz
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland
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31
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Determination of cathinones and other stimulant, psychedelic, and dissociative designer drugs in real hair samples. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 408:2035-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-9247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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32
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Maheux CR, Alarcon IQ, Copeland CR, Cameron TS, Linden A, Grossert JS. Identification of polymorphism in ethylone hydrochloride: synthesis and characterization. Drug Test Anal 2015; 8:847-57. [PMID: 26344849 PMCID: PMC5049635 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ethylone, a synthetic cathinone with psychoactive properties, is a designer drug which has appeared on the recreational drug market in recent years. Since 2012, illicit shipments of ethylone hydrochloride have been intercepted with increasing frequency at the Canadian border. Analysis has revealed that ethylone hydrochloride exists as two distinct polymorphs. In addition, several minor impurities were detected in some seized exhibits. In this study, the two conformational polymorphs of ethylone hydrochloride have been synthesized and fully characterized by FTIR, FT-Raman, powder XRD, GC-MS, ESI-MS/MS and NMR ((13) C CPMAS, (1) H, (13) C). The two polymorphs can be distinguished by vibrational spectroscopy, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The FTIR data are applied to the identification of both polymorphs of ethylone hydrochloride (mixed with methylone hydrochloride) in a laboratory submission labelled as 'Ocean Snow Ultra'. The data presented in this study will assist forensic scientists in the differentiation of the two ethylone hydrochloride polymorphs. This report, alongside our recent article on the single crystal X-ray structure of a second polymorph of this synthetic cathinone, is the first to confirm polymorphism in ethylone hydrochloride. © 2015 Canada Border Services Agency. Drug Testing and Analysis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2015 Canada Border Services Agency. Drug Testing and Analysis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad R Maheux
- Science and Engineering Directorate, Canada Border Services Agency, 79 Bentley Avenue, Ottawa, K2E 6T7, Ontario, Canada
| | - Idralyn Q Alarcon
- Science and Engineering Directorate, Canada Border Services Agency, 79 Bentley Avenue, Ottawa, K2E 6T7, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine R Copeland
- Science and Engineering Directorate, Canada Border Services Agency, 79 Bentley Avenue, Ottawa, K2E 6T7, Ontario, Canada
| | - T Stanley Cameron
- Department of Chemistry, Dalhousie University, PO Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Anthony Linden
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J Stuart Grossert
- Department of Chemistry, Dalhousie University, PO Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
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33
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Regioisomeric and enantiomeric analyses of 24 designer cathinones and phenethylamines using ultra high performance liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis with added cyclodextrins. Forensic Sci Int 2015; 254:148-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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34
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Power JD, Kavanagh P, McLaughlin G, O'Brien J, Talbot B, Barry M, Twamley B, Dowling G, Brandt SD. Identification and characterization of an imidazolium by-product formed during the synthesis of 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone). Drug Test Anal 2015; 7:894-902. [PMID: 25847393 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
4-Methylmethcathinone (2-methylamino-1-(4-methylphenyl)propan-1-one, mephedrone) is a psychoactive substance that has been associated with recreational use worldwide. Analytical data related to mephedrone are abundantly available but the characterization of by-products obtained during organic synthesis remains to be explored. This study presents the identification of a 1,2,3,5-tetramethyl-4-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium salt (TMMPI), which was formed during the synthesis of mephedrone. When diethyl ether was added to the crude reaction product, solid material precipitated from the solution. Analytical characterization of TMMPI employed a range of analytical techniques including chromatographic analysis in combination with various mass spectrometric detection methods, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and crystal structure analysis. Additional confirmation was obtained from organic synthesis of the imidazolium by-product. When TMMPI was subjected to analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), isomerization and degradation into two distinct compounds were observed, which pointed towards thermal instability under GC conditions. A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based investigation into a micro-scale synthesis of mephedrone and three additional analogues revealed that the corresponding TMMPI analogue was formed. Interestingly, storage of mephedrone freebase in a number of organic solvents also gave rise to TMMPI and it appeared that its formation during storage was significantly reduced in the absence of air. The present study aimed to support clandestine forensic investigations by employing analytical strategies that are applicable to manufacturing sites. The imidazolium salts will most likely be found amongst the waste products of any clandestine lab site under investigation rather than with the desired product.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Power
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.,Forensic Science Ireland, Garda HQ, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Pierce Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Gavin McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - John O'Brien
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Brian Talbot
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Michael Barry
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | | | - Geraldine Dowling
- State Laboratory, Backweston Campus, Stacummy Lane, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
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35
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Alotaibi MR, Husbands SM, Blagbrough IS. 1H, 13C, 15N HMBC, and 19F NMR spectroscopic characterisation of seized flephedrone, cut with benzocaine. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2015; 107:535-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2014.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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36
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Zhou MJ, Bouazzaoui S, Jones LE, Goodrich P, Bell SEJ, Sheldrake GN, Horton PN, Coles SJ, Fletcher NC. Isolation and structural determination of non-racemic tertiary cathinone derivatives. Org Biomol Chem 2015; 13:9629-36. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ob01306b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In this paper the dynamic resolution of racemic tertiary cathinones is demonstrated through co-crystallization with enantiopure aromatic tartaric acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.-J. Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - S. Bouazzaoui
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - L. E. Jones
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - P. Goodrich
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - S. E. J. Bell
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - G. N. Sheldrake
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
| | - P. N. Horton
- University of Southampton
- Chemistry Department
- EPSRC National Crystallography Service
- Southampton
- UK
| | - S. J. Coles
- University of Southampton
- Chemistry Department
- EPSRC National Crystallography Service
- Southampton
- UK
| | - N. C. Fletcher
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast
- UK
- Department of Chemistry
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37
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Bäckberg M, Lindeman E, Beck O, Helander A. Characteristics of analytically confirmed 3-MMC-related intoxications from the Swedish STRIDA project. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014; 53:46-53. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2014.981823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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38
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Strano Rossi S, Odoardi S, Gregori A, Peluso G, Ripani L, Ortar G, Serpelloni G, Romolo FS. An analytical approach to the forensic identification of different classes of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in seized materials. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2014; 28:1904-1916. [PMID: 25088134 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.6969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE New psychoactive substances (NPSs) are rapidly spreading worldwide, and forensic laboratories are often requested to identify new substances for which no reference standards or analytical data are available. This article describes an analytical approach that was adopted in Italy by a few collaborative centres of the Italian Early Warning System for Drugs, which has contributed many alerts for the identification of different classes of NPSs in the last 24 months. METHODS Seized crystals and powders were initially analysed via single quadrupole gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), followed by liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC/HRMS) in the positive electrospray ionisation (ESI) mode at 100,000 full width at half maximum resolution (FWHM) without fragmentation to elucidate the elemental compositions of unknown molecules. Different fragmentation voltages during LC/HRMS were applied to study the accurate masses of the obtained characteristic fragments. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses were performed to identify specific isomers when necessary. RESULTS Some interesting examples of unknown NPSs from seizures later identified in our laboratories are reported, with special focus on those cases where analytical standards were not available during analyses. These cases include cathinones, such as 3-methylmethcathinone (3-MMC), methylone, bk-MBDB (butylone), 4-methylethcathinone (4-MEC), flephedrone, methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and pentedrone, methoxetamine, apinaca or AKB48, benzydamine, meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (m-CPP), 5-MeO-N,N-dialkyl tryptamines, such as 5-MeO-DALT and 5-MeOMIPT, benzofurans, such as 6-APB and 4-APB, and diphenidine (identified for the first time in Europe). CONCLUSIONS The identification of NPSs in confiscated materials was successfully achieved via GC/MS coupled with LC/HRMS and, in a few cases, NMR analyses. The availability of GC/MS libraries is of great assistance in the identification of new drugs. Alternatively, the study of characteristic molecule fragments combined with the determination of their accurate masses can be a useful approach to identify unknown samples not previously analysed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Strano Rossi
- Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy L.go F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
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39
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Zancajo VMR, Brito J, Carrasco MP, Bronze MR, Moreira R, Lopes A. Analytical profiles of "legal highs" containing cathinones available in the area of Lisbon, Portugal. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 244:102-10. [PMID: 25240621 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 08/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Thirteen "legal highs" were purchased in different "smart shops" in the area of Lisbon, Portugal, during the month of February 2013. The samples were analyzed by a battery of analytical methods including Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) and wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF). Active ingredients were found either as single component or in mixtures in the different products. The cathinone derivative methedrone was present in three products; it is suspected to have a particular high toxicity and narrow therapeutic window linked with the methoxy group. A total of seven compounds were identified: 4-fluoromethcathinone, ethcathinone, buphedrone, methedrone, pentedrone, 3,4-dimethylmethcathinone and 4-methylethcathinone. Analytical profiles of all the samples were obtained and compared. Elemental composition of the products was obtained by XRF analysis. The inorganic profiles obtained contain useful information and can be used to distinguish and classify samples according to their origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M R Zancajo
- Instituto Superior de Ciências da Saúde Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal.
| | - J Brito
- WDXRFLab - Instituto Superior de Ciências da Saúde Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Marta P Carrasco
- Instituto de Investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M R Bronze
- Instituto de Investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; ITQB, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Avenida da República, Estação Agronómica Nacional, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Rui Moreira
- Instituto de Investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alvaro Lopes
- Instituto Superior de Ciências da Saúde Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, Monte de Caparica, 2829-511 Caparica, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal.
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40
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Kanu AB, Brandt SD, Williams MD, Zhang N, Hill HH. Analysis of Psychoactive Cathinones and Tryptamines by Electrospray Ionization Atmospheric Pressure Ion Mobility Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2013; 85:8535-42. [DOI: 10.1021/ac401951a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Bakarr Kanu
- Department of Chemistry, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North
Carolina 27110, United States
| | - Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, U.K
| | - Mike D. Williams
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
| | - Nancy Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
| | - Herbert H. Hill
- Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-4630,
United States
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41
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Trzybiński D, Niedziałkowski P, Ossowski T, Trynda A, Sikorski A. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of designer drugs: hydrochlorides of metaphedrone and pentedrone. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 232:e28-32. [PMID: 23938207 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2013] [Revised: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This article, written as a result of cooperation between a police forensic laboratory and an academic institution, outlines the possibility of applying single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis as an effective method of identifying designer drugs in forensic analysis. This technique allows crystalline samples to be determined with full assurance about their identity, even in the case of new substances for which no reference standards yet exist. Here, single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements of single-crystal specimens obtained from two samples were performed. Solution and refinement of the structures demonstrated that the target compounds were metaphedrone and pentedrone hydrochlorides - synthetic cathinone derivatives used as recreational stimulants. In addition to the identification of the title compounds, this paper gives a first report on their crystal structures. Once the CIF-files containing the crystal structure data of the title compounds have been deposited in the Cambridge Structural Database - the world repository of small molecule crystal structures - it will be possible to identify single crystals of the title compounds quickly on the basis of simple parameters (lattice parameters a, b, c, α, β, γ and unit cell volume). This description of the relationship between the geometrical parameters of moieties and the analysis of intermolecular interactions occurring in crystals of the title compounds extends knowledge about the synthetic derivatives of cathinone and may play a role in future studies, leading to a better understanding of their characteristic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Trzybiński
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, J. Sobieskiego 18/19, 80-952 Gdańsk, Poland.
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42
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Christie R, Horan E, Fox J, O'Donnell C, Byrne HJ, McDermott S, Power J, Kavanagh P. Discrimination of cathinone regioisomers, sold as ‘legal highs’, by Raman spectroscopy. Drug Test Anal 2013; 6:651-7. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2013] [Revised: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Christie
- Focas Research Institute, Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - E. Horan
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - J. Fox
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - C. O'Donnell
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - H. J. Byrne
- Focas Research Institute, Dublin Institute of Technology; Kevin Street Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - S. McDermott
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Garda HQ; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - J. Power
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Garda HQ; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - P. Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics; School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Science, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
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43
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Power JD, Clarke K, McDermott SD, McGlynn P, Barry M, White C, O’Brien J, Kavanagh P. The identification of 4-methylamphetamine and its synthesis by-products in forensic samples. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 228:115-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Revised: 01/12/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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44
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Fornal E. Identification of substituted cathinones: 3,4-Methylenedioxy derivatives by high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2013; 81-82:13-9. [PMID: 23603275 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2013.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The potential of high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS) for screening of synthetic cathinones in legal highs was examined. Samples were analysed by liquid chromatography coupled to hybrid quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (Q/TOF). Nanoelectrospray ionisation (nanoESI) was employed. MS and MS/MS spectra were acquired. Six 3,4-methylenedioxy derivatives: methylone, butylone, pentylone, MDPBP, MDPV and BMDP were detected and identified. The fragmentation pattern of 3,4-methylenedioxy derivatives in collision induced dissociation (CID) was derived and described, which will facilitate future screenings and identifications of new synthetic cathinones. For 3,4-methylenodioxy derivative cathinones the loss of neutral groups CH₄O₂, H₂O, amines and imines is observed. The loss of water and the methylenedioxy group does not occur when cyclic amino group - pyrrolidynyl is present in the molecule. Phenyloxazole cations are formed when CH₄O₂ is lost. The formation of the metylenedioxybenzoyloxonium and allyldioxybenzoyloxonium ions is typical for 3,4-methylenodioxy derivatives, however, the formation of the former appears to be inhibited by the presence in the molecule of the group of atoms able to form very stable tropylium carbocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Fornal
- Chemistry Department, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, al. Krasnicka 102, 20-718 Lublin, Poland.
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45
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Stanczuk A, Morris N, Gardner EA, Kavanagh P. Identification of (2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (APB) phenyl ring positional isomers in internet purchased products. Drug Test Anal 2013; 5:270-6. [PMID: 23349125 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Revised: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
5-(2-Aminopropyl)benzofuran (5-APB), a 'research chemical' that was first reported by UK authorities to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) in 2010, is anecdotally reported to produce a combination of stimulant and entactogenic effects. More recently, in 2011, 6-(2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (6-APB) was identified by Hungarian authorities. To confirm positional isomer identity in Internet purchased products, 4- 5- 6- and 7-APBs were synthesized and found to be separable by gas chromatography (as heptafluorobutyramide derivatives) and liquid chromatography. The analyses of products purchased from online vendors of 'research chemicals' identified the presence of 5- or 6-APBs. These findings were further confirmed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and (1) H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In products containing 6-APB, the 4- positional isomer was also identified and this may have arisen during the manufacturing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Stanczuk
- Department of Life and Physical Science, Athlone Institute of Technology, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
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46
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Screening of Stimulants Including Designer Drugs in Urine Using a Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry System. J Anal Toxicol 2013; 37:64-73. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bks091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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47
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LC-Q/TOF mass spectrometry data driven identification and spectroscopic characterisation of a new 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-benzyl cathinone (BMDP). J Pharm Biomed Anal 2013; 72:139-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2012.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 09/15/2012] [Accepted: 09/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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48
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Mabbott S, Correa E, Cowcher DP, Allwood JW, Goodacre R. Optimization of Parameters for the Quantitative Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection of Mephedrone Using a Fractional Factorial Design and a Portable Raman Spectrometer. Anal Chem 2012. [DOI: 10.1021/ac302542r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Mabbott
- School of Chemistry,
Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Elon Correa
- School of Chemistry,
Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - David P. Cowcher
- School of Chemistry,
Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - J. William Allwood
- School of Chemistry,
Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Royston Goodacre
- School of Chemistry,
Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 7DN, United Kingdom
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49
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Wood DM, Dargan PI. Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone): what is new in our understanding of its use and toxicity. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2012; 39:227-33. [PMID: 22564711 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Revised: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 04/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) is a synthetic cathinone that has been used as a recreational drug in Europe and elsewhere in the world since 2007. In addition to published scientific papers there are a number of different data sources available which provide information on the sources, availability and prevalence of use of mephedrone. Whilst there are no formal human studies to determine the acute toxicity of mephedrone, there is a range of different levels of data available which describe the acute toxicity of mephedrone. These include user Internet discussion fora, sub-population level surveys of user previous experiences of acute toxicity and individual case reports and case series of toxicity related to both self-reported and analytically confirmed mephedrone use. In this review article we describe how through the process of data triangulation using a combination of these different sources, it is possible to develop an understanding of the acute toxicity of mephedrone. This demonstrates that mephedrone has a pattern of acute toxicity that is similar to other stimulant drugs such as MDMA, amphetamine and cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Wood
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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50
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Tsujikawa K, Mikuma T, Kuwayama K, Miyaguchi H, Kanamori T, Iwata YT, Inoue H. Identification and differentiation of methcathinone analogs by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2012; 5:670-7. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Tsujikawa
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Mikuma
- Forensic Science Laboratory; Chiba Prefectural Police HQ; 1-71-1, Chuo-minato, Chuo-ku; Chiba; Chiba; 260-0024; Japan
| | - Kenji Kuwayama
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Hajime Miyaguchi
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Tatsuyuki Kanamori
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Yuko T. Iwata
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Inoue
- National Research Institute of Police Science; 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha; Kashiwa; Chiba; 277-0882; Japan
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