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Marchei E, Graziano S, Varì MR, Minutillo A, Aquilina V, Pichini S, Rotolo MC. NPS-EQA PART I: Four years' experience in external quality assessment program in Italy for classical and new psychoactive substances analysis in oral fluid. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 243:116084. [PMID: 38452420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
In 2019, Italian National Institute of Health established an external quality assessment program (EQA) to evaluate the performance of oral fluid testing for classical and new psychoactive substances by laboratories participating in the National Early Warning System collaborative centres. This report presents the results of four rounds between 2019 and 2023. Eleven oral fluid specimens, including 3 blank samples, were prepared by adding different classes of and new psychoactive drugs at known concentrations to pre-screened drug-free oral fluid. False-negative and false-positive results were calculated for the qualitative data evaluation. The quantitative evaluation measured the imprecision and accuracy of the results, in terms of coefficient of variation (CV%) and percent error (ERR%), respectively, with respect to a mean value obtained by reference laboratories. Z-score values were then calculated. Over the years, there has been a significant improvement in false-negative results (from 42.7% in the first year to 19.4% in the last year), but not in false-positive results (from 33.3% in the first year to 22.2% in the last one). In addition to the classic drugs of abuse (e.g. cocaine, amphetamine, methadone), the substances found in false positive samples belonged to the class of synthetic cannabinoids (e.g 5-fluoro CUMYL-PINACA and 5-fluoro-EDMB-PICA), synthetic opioids (e.g butyrylfentanyl) and tryptamines (e.g. 5-methoxy-N-methyl-N-isopropyltryptamine). The four rounds yielded a mean ERR% of approximately 22.1% and a mean CV% of around 41.5%. The participating laboratories demonstrated variable performances in relation to the class of analysed psychoactive substances, as evidenced by the calculated Z-scores. Between 25% and 60% of the reported results in all rounds should be considered satisfactory. EQA is a crucial element of laboratory quality management systems. It promotes continuous improvement and maintains high standards in the field of forensic and clinical drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Marchei
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Graziano
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Varì
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Adele Minutillo
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Aquilina
- Investigation, Crime and International Security, Università degli Studi Internazionali di Roma - UNINT, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Akca AA, Couchman L, Frinculescu A, Johnston A. Analysis of drug-impregnated paper samples seized in English prisons between 2018 and 2020. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 357:111991. [PMID: 38513529 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) in the form of impregnated papers delivered to prisoners are of particular concern in prison settings, where they are commonly used by vaping. The purpose of this study was to create a qualitative method for identifying the various emerging NPS impregnated onto paper samples sent to prisoners. It helps to demonstrate that these findings can be used to predict drug prevalence and trends in prisons. Between 2018 and 2020, 1250 non-judicial paper samples seized from 12 English prisons were analysed to determine the NPSs being circulated. Approximately 1 cm2 paper were cut and added to 50 % (v/v) methanol in LCMS-grade water. Vortex-mixing was used to prepare extracts (30 min). Q-TOF LC/MS was used to screen the extracts. This study showed that synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) was the most common drug group detected in impregnated paper seizures in English prisons between 2018 and 2020, followed by cocaine, heroin type drugs (A) and amphetamine, ketamine type drugs (B). Male prisons had a higher prevalence of SCRAs, whereas female prisons had a higher prevalence of A drugs. Furthermore, lower security prisons were found to have a higher prevalence of B drugs, pregabalin, gabapentin type drugs (C), and abused and prescription drugs than higher security prisons which unveiled a higher prevalence of nicotine. The findings of this study have revealed new information about drug use in prisons. This study will also aid in the identification of drug smuggling routes into jails, keeping prison staff up to date with the trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asena Avci Akca
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkiye; Institute of Forensic Sciences, Department of Forensic Toxicology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkiye; Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Lewis Couchman
- Analytical Services International Ltd, St. George's University of London, London, UK; Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Anca Frinculescu
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK; TICTAC Communications Ltd., St. George's University of London, London, UK.
| | - Atholl Johnston
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Analytical Services International Ltd, St. George's University of London, London, UK.
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3
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Lea Houston M, Morgan J, Kelso C. Narrative Review of the Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicities of Illicit Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:92-109. [PMID: 37190813 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230515163107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the most diverse class of new psychoactive substances worldwide, with approximately 300 unique SCRAs identified to date. While the use of this class of drug is not particularly prevalent, SCRAs are associated with several deaths every year due to their severe toxicity. METHODS A thorough examination of the literature identified 15 new SCRAs with a significant clinical impact between 2015 and 2021. RESULTS These 15 SCRAs have been implicated in 154 hospitalizations and 209 deaths across the US, Europe, Asia, and Australasia during this time period. CONCLUSION This narrative review provides pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicologic data for SCRAs as a drug class, including an in-depth review of known pharmacological properties of 15 recently identified and emerging SCRAs for the benefit of researchers, policy makers, and clinicians who wish to be informed of developments in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Lea Houston
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jody Morgan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Celine Kelso
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Molecular Horizons Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Gioé-Gallo C, Ortigueira S, Brea J, Raïch I, Azuaje J, Paleo MR, Majellaro M, Loza MI, Salas CO, García-Mera X, Navarro G, Sotelo E. Pharmacological insights emerging from the characterization of a large collection of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists designer drugs. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114934. [PMID: 37236027 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) constitute the largest and most defiant group of abuse designer drugs. These new psychoactive substances (NPS), developed as unregulated alternatives to cannabis, have potent cannabimimetic effects and their use is usually associated with episodes of psychosis, seizures, dependence, organ toxicity and death. Due to their ever-changing structure, very limited or nil structural, pharmacological, and toxicological information is available to the scientific community and the law enforcement offices. Here we report the synthesis and pharmacological evaluation (binding and functional) of the largest and most diverse collection of enantiopure SCRAs published to date. Our results revealed novel SCRAs that could be (or may currently be) used as illegal psychoactive substances. We also report, for the first time, the cannabimimetic data of 32 novel SCRAs containing an (R) configuration at the stereogenic center. The systematic pharmacological profiling of the library enabled the identification of emerging Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) and Structure-Selectivity Relationship (SSR) trends, the detection of ligands exhibiting incipient cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) subtype selectivity and highlights the significant neurotoxicity of representative SCRAs on mouse primary neuronal cells. Several of the new emerging SCRAs are currently expected to have a rather limited potential for harm, as the evaluation of their pharmacological profiles revealed lower potencies and/or efficacies. Conceived as a resource to foster collaborative investigation of the physiological effects of SCRAs, the library obtained can contribute to addressing the challenge posed by recreational designer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gioé-Gallo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Sandra Ortigueira
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - José Brea
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.
| | - Iu Raïch
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences (NeuroUB), Campus Mundet, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Jhonny Azuaje
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - M Rita Paleo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Maria Majellaro
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - María Isabel Loza
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Cristian O Salas
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago 7820436, Chile
| | - Xerardo García-Mera
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Gemma Navarro
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences (NeuroUB), Campus Mundet, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.
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Groth O, Roider G, Angerer V, Schäper J, Graw M, Musshoff F, Auwärter V. "Spice"-related deaths in and around Munich, Germany: A retrospective look at the role of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in our post-mortem cases over a seven-year period (2014-2020). Int J Legal Med 2023:10.1007/s00414-023-02995-2. [PMID: 37072496 PMCID: PMC10247575 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02995-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs, "Spice") are a diverse group of recreational drugs, with their structural and pharmacological variability still evolving. Forensic toxicologists often rely on previous reports to assess their role in intoxication cases. This work provides detailed information on the "Spice"-related fatalities around Munich, Germany, from 2014 to 2020. All cases underwent an autopsy. Pharmaceutical and illicit drugs were detected and quantified in post-mortem peripheral blood or liver by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Based on circumstantial evidence, only those cases for which a prior consumption was suspected underwent additional analyses for SCRAs and other new psychoactive substances in post-mortem blood, liver or antemortem specimens. Drug concentrations, pathological findings at autopsy and case histories were considered to assess and rank the SCRAs' involvement in each death. Concentration ranges for the individual substances in blood were defined and their distribution patterns over the investigated period were determined and correlated with their legal status and local police seizures. We identified 41 different SCRAs among 98 fatalities. 91.8% were male, at a median age of 36 years. SCRAs played a causative role in 51%, contributory role in 26%, and an insignificant role in 23% of cases. In correlation with local police seizures and legal status, 5F-ADB was the most prevalent in our cases, followed by 5F-MDMB-PICA and AB-CHMINACA. Cumyl-CBMICA and 5F-MDMB-P7AICA were among the least frequently detected SCRAs. "Spice"-related fatalities and SCRAs' causative role have significantly decreased among our cases since the German New Psychoactive Substances Act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olwen Groth
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Gabriele Roider
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Verena Angerer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, St. Gallen Cantonal Hospital, 9010, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Jan Schäper
- Forensic Science Institute, Bavarian State Criminal Police Office (BLKA), 80636, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Graw
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Frank Musshoff
- Forensic Toxicological Center (FTC) Munich, Dessauerstrasse 13-15, 80992, Munich, Germany
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79110, Freiburg, Germany
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6
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New Psychoactive Substances: Major Groups, Laboratory Testing Challenges, Public Health Concerns, and Community-Based Solutions. J CHEM-NY 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/5852315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Across communities worldwide, various new psychoactive substances (NPSs) continue to emerge, which worsens the challenges to global mental health, drug rules, and public health risks, as well as combats their usage. Specifically, the vast number of NPSs that are currently available, coupled with the rate at which new ones emerge worldwide, increasingly challenges both forensic and clinical testing strategies. The well-established NPS detection techniques include immunoassays, colorimetric tests, mass spectrometric techniques, chromatographic techniques, and hyphenated types. Nonetheless, mitigating drug abuse and NPS usage is achievable through extensive community-based initiatives, with increased focus on harm reduction. Clinically validated and reliable testing of NPS from human samples, along with community-driven solution, such as harm reduction, will be of great importance, especially in combating their prevalence and the use of other illicit synthetic substances. There is a need for continued literature synthesis to reiterate the importance of NPS, given the continuous emergence of illicit substances in the recent years. All these are discussed in this overview, as we performed another look into NPS, from differentiating the major groups and identifying with laboratory testing challenges to community-based initiatives.
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7
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Hur KH, Lee Y, Donio AL, Lee JG, Lee BR, Kim SK, Yoon S, Lee YS, Kim HC, Lee SY, Jang CG. Mepirapim, a novel synthetic cannabinoid, induces Parkinson's disease-related behaviors by causing maladaptation of the dopamine system in the brain. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:581-591. [PMID: 36355181 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03414-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Mepirapim is a novel synthetic cannabinoid that first appeared on the illicit drug market in 2013. In recent years, recreational abuse of Mepirapim has caused serious emergencies, posing a threat to public health. However, there are no legal regulations to prohibit the use of Mepirapim, as there is no scientific evidence for the dangerous pharmacological effects of the drug. In the present study, we investigated the dangerous neurotoxic effects of Mepirapim through behavioral and molecular experiments in mice (ICR/CD1, male, 25-30 g). In particular, based on a previous study that Mepirapim activates the dopamine system, we evaluated whether high-dose Mepirapim [single (15, 30, or 60 mg·kg-1, i.p.) or multiple (8, 15, or 30 mg·kg-1, i.p. × 4 at 2 h intervals)] treatment causes Parkinson's disease-related symptoms through damage to the dopamine system. In the result, we found that Mepirapim treatment caused comprehensive Parkinson's disease-related symptoms, including motor impairment, cognitive deficits and mood disorders. Furthermore, we confirmed the maladaptation in dopamine-related neurochemicals, including decreased dopamine levels, decreased tyrosine hydroxylase expression, and increased α-synuclein expression, in the brains of mice treated with Mepirapim. Taken together, these results indicate that Mepirapim has dangerous neurotoxic effects that induces Parkinson's disease-related behaviors by causing maladaptation of the dopamine system in the brain. Based on these findings, we propose the strict regulation of recreational abuse and therapeutic misuse of Mepirapim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Hyun Hur
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Youyoung Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Audrey Lynn Donio
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Gyeong Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Ram Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Kyung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Seolmin Yoon
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sup Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.,Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, School of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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8
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Boronat Ena MDM, Cowan DA, Abbate V. Ambient ionization mass spectrometry applied to new psychoactive substance analysis. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2023; 42:3-34. [PMID: 34036620 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade a plethora of drugs with similar effects to controlled psychoactive drugs, like cannabis, amfetamine (amphetamine), or lysergic acid diethylamide, have been synthesized. These drugs can collectively be classified under the term new psychoactive substances (NPS) and are used for recreational purposes. The novelty of the substances, alongside the rapid rate of emergence and structural variability, makes their detection as well as their legal control highly challenging, increasing the demand for rapid and easy-to-use analytical techniques for their detection and identification. Therefore, interest in ambient ionization mass spectrometry applied to NPS has grown in recent years, which is largely because it is relatively fast and simple to use and has a low operating cost. This review aims to provide a critique of the suitability of current ambient ionization techniques for the analysis of NPS in the forensic and clinical toxicology fields. Consideration is given to analytical performance and ease of implementation, including ionization efficiency, selectivity, sensitivity, quantification, analyte chemistry, molecular coverage, validation, and practicality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Del Mar Boronat Ena
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
| | - David A Cowan
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, London, UK
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9
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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:ijerph19084869. [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
- Correspondence: (L.A.P.); (M.A.); (M.B.); (E.G.); Tel.: +351-275-329-001 (L.A.P. & E.G.); +55-800-042-0384 (M.A.); +351-21-881-1800 (M.B.)
| | - Maristela Andraus
- Chromatox/Dasa Laboratory Ltda. Sumaré, São Paulo 01259-000, Brazil
- Correspondence: (L.A.P.); (M.A.); (M.B.); (E.G.); Tel.: +351-275-329-001 (L.A.P. & E.G.); +55-800-042-0384 (M.A.); +351-21-881-1800 (M.B.)
| | - Mário Barroso
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, 1150-219 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: (L.A.P.); (M.A.); (M.B.); (E.G.); Tel.: +351-275-329-001 (L.A.P. & E.G.); +55-800-042-0384 (M.A.); +351-21-881-1800 (M.B.)
| | - 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
- Correspondence: (L.A.P.); (M.A.); (M.B.); (E.G.); Tel.: +351-275-329-001 (L.A.P. & E.G.); +55-800-042-0384 (M.A.); +351-21-881-1800 (M.B.)
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10
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Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography Method for the Analysis of Synthetic and Phytocannabinoids. J Chromatogr A 2022; 1673:463080. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2022.463080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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11
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Brown K, Dennany L. Electrochemiluminescence sensors and forensic investigations: a viable technique for drug detection? PURE APPL CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/pac-2021-1204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are today considered one of the major ticking public health time bombs in regard to drug abuse. The inability to identify these substances with current screening methods, sees their distribution remain uninterrupted and contributes to the high death rates amongst users. To tackle this problem, it is vital that new robust screening methods are developed, addressing the limitation of those currently in place, namely colour subjectivity and lack of compatibility with the complex matrices these substances may be found within. To this avail, electrochemical methods have been assessed. These low cost and extremely portable sensors have been successfully applied for the direct detection of a broad range of compounds of interest in a range of matrices including, herbal material, commercial drinks and biological fluids (serum, saliva, sweat and urine). With their high versatility, gifted through a significant degree of flexibility in regard to electrode material a range of sensors have to date been reported. In this review the various electrochemical sensors developed to date for NPS detection will be compared and contrasted, with a special focus upon those utilising electrochemiluminescence (ECL) technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Brown
- Pure and Applied Chemistry , University of Strathclyde , Technology & Innovation Centre, 99 George Street , G1 1RD Glasgow , UK
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12
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Ameen A, Brown K, Dennany L. Can synthetic cannabinoids be reliably screened with electrochemistry? An assessment of the ability to screen for synthetic cannabinoids STS-135 and BB-22 within a single sample matrix. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2022.116141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Markin PA, Brito A, Moskaleva NE, Tagliaro F, La Frano MR, Savitskii MV, Appolonova SA. Short- and long-term exposures of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-APINAC induce metabolomic alterations associated with neurotransmitter systems and embryotoxicity confirmed by teratogenicity in zebrafish. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 243:109000. [PMID: 33561556 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Synthetic cannabinoids are abused substances with strong psychoactive effects. Little is known about the effects on neurotransmission and the toxicity of the second-generation cannabinoid 5F-APINAC. The objective was to assess the influence of short- and long-term exposures of 5F-APINAC on metabolites associated with neurotransmission on zebrafish. METHODS Short-term ("acute", 4 h) and long-term ("chronic", 96 h) exposures to 5F-APINAC were performed at 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 μM. Intervention groups were compared with a vehicle control. Each group n = 20 zebrafish eggs/larvae. Metabolites related to neurotransmission were determined. RESULTS In chronic exposure, larvae exposed to 10 μM 5F-APINAC presented morphological and developmental alterations. GABA had the lowest concentrations at higher exposure in acute (p < 0.01) and chronic (p < 0.001) experiments. Glutamine showed a descending trend in the acute experiment, but an ascending trend in the chronic exposure (p < 0.05). In chronic exposure, tryptophan presented an overall descending trend, but with a neat increase at 10 μM 5F-APINAC (p < 0.001). Tryptamine in acute exposure presented lower (p < 0.05) concentrations at higher doses. Dopamine and acetylcholine presented highest (p < 0.05) concentrations in the acute and chronic exposures, but with a drop at the highest doses in the chronic experiments. In chronic exposure, xanthurenic acid decreased, except for the highest dose. Picolinic acid was increased at the highest doses in the chronic experiment (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Short- and long-term exposures induced metabolomic alterations associated with the gamma-aminobutyric acid/glutamic acid, dopaminergic/adrenergic, cholinergic neurotransmitter systems, and the kynurenine pathway. Chronic exposure at 10 μM 5F-APINAC was associated with embryotoxicity confirmed by teratogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel A Markin
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; PhD Program in Nanosciences and Advanced Technologies, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russia
| | - Alex Brito
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia E Moskaleva
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; World-Class Research Center "Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare", I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Franco Tagliaro
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Unit of Forensic Medicine, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michael R La Frano
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA; Cal Poly Metabolomics Service Center, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Mark V Savitskii
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russia
| | - Svetlana A Appolonova
- Laboratory of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolomic Analysis, Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.
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14
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Yue L, Xiang P, Shen B, Xu D, Song F, Yan H. Metabolism of 4F-MDMB-BICA in zebrafish by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1223-1229. [PMID: 33629502 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In this study, in vivo metabolic studies of the synthetic cannabinoid 4F-MDMB-BICA were investigated using zebrafish models. The metabolites were identified and structurally illustrated by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Fourteen phase-I metabolites and four phase-II metabolites were generated from zebrafish. The main metabolic pathways of the phase-I metabolism included N-dealkylation, N-dealkylation combined with hydroxylation, amide hydrolysis, oxidative defluorination, oxidative defluorination to butyric acid, acetic acid formation at the indole side chain, hydroxylation, ester hydrolysis followed by hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, dehydrogenation, and N-dealkylation, and oxidative defluorination subsequently combined with dehydrogenation. The main biotransformations of the phase-II metabolism were glucuronidation and sulfation. Two phase-I metabolites (A1 and A11) and four phase-II metabolites (A2, A3, A4, and A12) were reported for the first time. A14, which was confirmed in human biological samples, was detected only in zebrafish samples but not found in human liver microsome incubation study. The current study indicates that the zebrafish model is a promising tool for elucidating the metabolism of NPS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linna Yue
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Xiang
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Baohua Shen
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Duoqi Xu
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenyun Song
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Yan
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
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15
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Esteve-Turrillas FA, Armenta S, de la Guardia M. Sample preparation strategies for the determination of psychoactive substances in biological fluids. J Chromatogr A 2020; 1633:461615. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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16
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Feeney W, Moorthy AS, Sisco E. Spectral trends in GC-EI-MS data obtained from the SWGDRUG mass spectral library and literature: A resource for the identification of unknown compounds. Forensic Chem 2020; 31:10.1016/j.forc.2022.100459. [PMID: 36578315 PMCID: PMC9793444 DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2022.100459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Rapid identification of new or emerging psychoactive substances remains a critical challenge in forensic drug chemistry laboratories. Current analytical protocols are well-designed for confirmation of known substances yet struggle when new compounds are encountered. Many laboratories initially attempt to classify new compounds using gas chromatography-electron ionization-mass spectrometry (GC-EI-MS). Though there is a large body of research focused on the analysis of illicit substances with GC-EI-MS, there is little high-level discussion of mass spectral trends for different classes of drugs. This manuscript compiles literature information and performs simple exploratory analyses on evaluated GC-EI-MS data to investigate mass spectral trends for illicit substance classes. Additionally, this work offers other important aspects: brief discussions of how each class of drugs is used; illustrations of EI mass spectra with proposed structures of commonly observed ions; and summaries of mass spectral trends that can help an analyst classify new illicit compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Feeney
- Corresponding author at: Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, Material Measurement Laboratory, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA. (W. Feeney)
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17
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Presley BC, Castaneto MS, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. Metabolic profiling of synthetic cannabinoid 5F-ADB and identification of metabolites in authentic human blood samples via human liver microsome incubation and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2020; 34:e8908. [PMID: 32710798 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.8908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids, a prevalent class of recreational drugs, are a major clinical, forensic and public health challenge. One such compound, 5F-ADB, has been implicated in fatalities worldwide. Understanding its metabolism and distribution facilitates the development of laboratory assays to substantiate its consumption. Synthetic cannabinoid metabolites have been extensively studied in urine; studies identifying metabolites in blood are limited and no data on the metabolic stability (half-life, clearance and extraction ratio) of 5F-ADB have been published prior to this report. METHODS The in vitro metabolism of 5F-ADB was elucidated via incubation with human liver microsomes for 2 h at 37°C. Samples were collected at multiple time points to determine its metabolic stability. Upon identification of metabolites, authentic forensic human blood samples underwent liquid-liquid extraction and were screened for metabolites. Extracts were analyzed via ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QTOFMS) operated in positive electrospray ionization mode. RESULTS Seven metabolites were identified including oxidative defluorination (M1); carboxypentyl (M2); monohydroxylation of the fluoropentyl chain (M3.1/M3.2) and indazole ring system (M4); ester hydrolysis (M5); and ester hydrolysis with oxidative defluorination (M6). The half-life (3.1 min), intrinsic clearance (256.2 mL min-1 kg-1 ), hepatic clearance (18.6 mL min-1 kg-1 ) and extraction ratio (0.93) were determined for the first time. In blood, M1 was present in each sample as the most abundant substance; two samples contained M5; one contained 5F-ADB, M1 and M5. CONCLUSIONS 5F-ADB is rapidly metabolized in HLM. 5F-ADB, M1 and M5 are pharmacologically active at the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 /CB2 ) and M1 and M5 may contribute to a user's impairment profile. The results demonstrate that it is imperative that synthetic cannabinoid assays screen for pharmacologically active metabolites, especially for drugs with short half-lives. The authors propose that M1 and M5 are appropriate markers to include in laboratory blood tests screening for 5F-ADB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Presley
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, 1901 N. 13 St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Marisol S Castaneto
- Department of Pathology, Tripler Army Medical Center, 1 Jarrett White Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96859, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave, Willow Grove, PA, 19090, USA
| | - Susan A Jansen-Varnum
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, 1901 N. 13 St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
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18
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Morrow PL, Stables S, Kesha K, Tse R, Kappatos D, Pandey R, Russell S, Linsell O, McCarthy MJ, Spark A, Vertes D, Triggs Y, McCarthy S, Cuthers N, Massey R. An outbreak of deaths associated with AMB-FUBINACA in Auckland NZ. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 25:100460. [PMID: 32743487 PMCID: PMC7385440 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AMB-FUBINACA is a synthetic cannabinoid that has been associated with periodic outbreaks of acute poisonings, but few fatalities. In late May, June and July 2017 Auckland, New Zealand, experienced an outbreak of deaths associated with AMB-FUBINACA that continued at a rate of about 2-3 per month through February 2019. The aim of this study was to define the demographic, circumstantial, pathological and toxicological characteristics of this outbreak. METHODS All records of the Northern Forensic Pathology Service, Auckland Hospital, were reviewed in which the word "AMB-FUBINACA" was referenced, including initial police reports, autopsy reports and toxicology reports. Recorded data included age, sex, race/ethnicity, times and locations, cause of death, autopsy and toxicology findings, and a brief summary of the circumstances of death. Descriptive statistics were performed using IBM® SPSS® Statistics Version 24 and Microsoft® Excel® Version 14.7.2. FINDINGS Sixty-four cases were identified. One sudden infant death and five cases where cause of death was due to trauma were excluded. Of the remaining 58 cases, 88% were male. Mean age was 42 years. In 95% of the deaths, AMB-FUBINACA alone or in combination with alcohol or another drug was listed as the primary or contributory cause of death. In 41 cases postmortem blood concentrations of AMB-FUBINACA acid were available, ranging from <45 ng/mL to >1000 ng/mL, mean 229 ng/mL, median 140 ng/mL. Comorbidities identified included mixed intoxications (29%), heart disease (47%) and obesity (16%). A mental health diagnosis was reported in 50%, and 40% were on antipsychotic medications. INTERPRETATION This study presents characteristics, comorbidities and toxicological findings in a unique outbreak of deaths associated with the synthetic cannabinoid AMB-FUBINACA in Auckland, NZ. FUNDING All work was funded as part of the usual employment of the authors in their respective institutions. No special funding sources are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul L Morrow
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
- Corresponding author.
| | - Simon Stables
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Kilak Kesha
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Rexson Tse
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Diana Kappatos
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), 34 Kenepuru Dr, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand
| | - Rishi Pandey
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), 34 Kenepuru Dr, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Russell
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), 34 Kenepuru Dr, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand
| | - Oliver Linsell
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), 34 Kenepuru Dr, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand
| | - Mary Jane McCarthy
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), 34 Kenepuru Dr, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand
| | - Amy Spark
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Dianne Vertes
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Yvonne Triggs
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Sinead McCarthy
- Northern Forensic Pathology Service, LabPlus, Gate 4 Grafton Rd, Auckland City Hospital, PO Box 110031, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
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19
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Presley BC, Castaneto MS, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. Assessment of synthetic cannabinoid FUB-AMB and its ester hydrolysis metabolite in human liver microsomes and human blood samples using UHPLC-MS/MS. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 34:e4884. [PMID: 32415732 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
FUB-AMB, an indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid recreational drug, was one of the compounds most frequently reported to governmental agencies worldwide between 2016 and 2019. It has been implicated in intoxications and fatalities, posing a risk to public health. In the current study, FUB-AMB was incubated with human liver microsomes (HLM) to assess its metabolic fate and stability and to determine if its major ester hydrolysis metabolite (M1) was present in 12 authentic forensic human blood samples from driving under the influence of drug cases and postmortem investigations using UHPLC-MS/MS. FUB-AMB was rapidly metabolized in HLM, generating M1 that was stable through a 120-min incubation period, a finding that indicates a potential long detection window in human biological samples. M1 was identified in all blood samples, and no parent drug was detected. The authors propose that M1 is a reliable marker for inclusion in laboratory blood screens for FUB-AMB; this metabolite may be pharmacologically active like its precursor FUB-AMB. M1 frequently appears in samples in which the parent drug is undetectable and can point to the causative agent. The results suggest that it is imperative that synthetic cannabinoid laboratory assay panels include metabolites, especially known or potential pharmacologically active metabolites, particularly for compounds with short half-lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Presley
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
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20
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Alves VL, Gonçalves JL, Aguiar J, Teixeira HM, Câmara JS. The synthetic cannabinoids phenomenon: from structure to toxicological properties. A review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2020; 50:359-382. [PMID: 32530350 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2020.1762539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The word "cannabinoid" refers to every chemical substance, regardless of structure or origin, that joins the cannabinoid receptors of the body and brain and that have similar effects to those produced by the Cannabis plant and based on their source of production, cannabinoids can be classified into endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids represent the largest class of drugs detected through the EU Early Warning System with a total of 190 substances notified from 2008 to 2018 and about 280 have been reported worldwide to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Sprayed on natural herb mixtures with the aim to mimic the euphoria effect of cannabis and sold as "herbal smoking blends" or "herbal incense" under brand names like "Spice" or "K2", synthetic cannabinoids are available from websites for the combination with herbal materials or more recently, for the use in e-cigarettes. Currently labeled as "not for human consumption" to circumvent legislation, their legal status varies by country with many government institutions currently pushing for their control. However, due to the emergence of new substances, it requires a constant update of the list of controlled drugs. Little is known about how these substances work and their toxic effects in humans and the same product could vary not only in the amount and in the type of substance added. In the last years, synthetic cannabinoids have been associated with deaths and acute intoxications in Europe and, despite a range of new measures introduced in this area, continue to represent a challenge to current drug policy models. These synthetic substances are much more potent than natural cannabis, as well as displayed greater efficacy, acting as full agonists at the cannabinoid receptors. It is possible that, along with being highly potent, some may also have long half-lives, potentially leading to a prolonged psychoactive effect. The present work provides a review on existing literature about the development of synthetic cannabinoids as substances of abuse, current patterns of abuse and their legal status, chemical classification, and some pharmacological and toxicological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera L Alves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - João L Gonçalves
- 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 da Universidade de Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, Portugal.,Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, 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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21
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Presley BC, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. In Vitro Metabolic Profile Elucidation of Synthetic Cannabinoid APP-CHMINACA (PX-3). J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:226-236. [PMID: 31665324 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids remain the most prevalent subclass of new psychoactive substances (NPS) reported internationally. However, the metabolic and pharmacological properties of many of these compounds remain unknown. Elucidating these characteristics allows members of the clinical and forensic communities to identify causative agents in patient samples, as well as render conclusions regarding their toxic effects. This work presents a detailed report on the in vitro phase I metabolism of indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid APP-CHMINACA (PX-3). Incubation of APP-CHMINACA with human liver microsomes, followed by analysis of extracts via high-resolution mass spectrometry, yielded 12 metabolites, encompassing 7 different metabolite classes. Characterization of the metabolites was achieved by evaluating the product ion spectra, accurate mass and chemical formula generated for each metabolite. The predominant biotransformations observed were hydrolysis of the distal amide group and hydroxylation of the cyclohexylmethyl (CHM) substituent. Nine metabolites were amide hydrolysis products, of which five were monohydroxylated, one dihydroxylated and two were ketone products. The metabolites in greatest abundance in the study were products of amide hydrolysis with no further biotransformation (M1), followed by amide hydrolysis with monohydroxylation (M2.1). Three APP-CHMINACA-specific metabolites were generated, all of which were hydroxylated on the CHM group; one mono-, di- and tri-hydroxylated metabolite each was produced, with dihydroxylation (M6) present in the greatest abundance. The authors propose that metabolites M1, M2.1 and M6 are the most appropriate markers to determine consumption of APP-CHMINACA. The methods used in the current study have broad applicability and have been used to determine the in vitro metabolic profiles of multiple synthetic cannabinoids and other classes of NPS. This research can be used to guide analytical scientists in method development, synthesis of reference material, pharmacological testing of proposed metabolites and prediction of metabolic processes of compounds yet to be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Presley
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, 1901 N. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, 2300 Stratford Ave., Willow Grove, PA 19090, USA
| | - Susan A Jansen-Varnum
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, 1901 N. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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Apirakkan O, Frinculescu A, Denton H, Shine T, Cowan D, Abbate V, Frascione N. Isolation, detection and identification of synthetic cannabinoids in alternative formulations or dosage forms. Forensic Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2020.100227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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23
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Apirakkan O, Gavrilović I, Cowan DA, Abbate V. In Vitro Phase I Metabolic Profiling of the Synthetic Cannabinoids AM-694, 5F-NNEI, FUB-APINACA, MFUBINAC, and AMB-FUBINACA. Chem Res Toxicol 2020; 33:1653-1664. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.9b00466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Orapan Apirakkan
- King’s Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Ivana Gavrilović
- King’s Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
- Drug Control Centre, King’s Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Cowan
- King’s Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- King’s Forensics, Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Science, King’s College London, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
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24
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Presley BC, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. Phase I metabolism of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist PX-1 (5F-APP-PICA) via incubation with human liver microsomes and UHPLC-HRMS. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 34:e4786. [PMID: 31863591 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Studies of the metabolic and pharmacological profiles of indole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids (a prevalent class of new psychoactive substances) are critical in ensuring that their use can be detected through bioanalytical testing. We have determined the in vitro Phase I metabolism of one such compound, PX-1 (5F-APP-PICA), and appropriate markers to demonstrate human consumption. PX-1 was incubated with human liver microsomes, followed by analysis of the extracts via high-resolution mass spectrometry. A total of 10 metabolites were identified, with simultaneous defluorination and monohydroxylation of the pentyl side chain as the primary biotransformation product (M1). Additional metabolites formed were hydroxylation products of the indole and benzyl moieties, distal amide hydrolysis, N-desfluoropentyl, and carboxypentyl metabolites. Three monohydroxylated metabolites specific to PX-1 were identified and are reported for the first time in this study. The primary metabolite, M1, was further oxidized to M5, a carboxypentyl metabolite. M8 is PX-1 specific, possessing an intact fluoropentyl side chain. These three metabolites are the most suitable for implementation into bioanalytical assays for demonstrating PX-1 consumption. The findings of this study can be used by analytical scientists and medical professionals to determine PX-1 ingestion and predict the metabolites of synthetic cannabinoids sharing structural elements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA
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25
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Krotulski AJ, Mohr ALA, Diamond FX, Logan BK. Detection and characterization of the new synthetic cannabinoid APP-BINACA in forensic casework. Drug Test Anal 2019; 12:136-144. [PMID: 31788963 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) continue to emerge around the world. APP-BINACA (or APP-BUTINACA), a novel synthetic cannabinoid, was first reported in Europe in January 2019 and later in the United States in March 2019. APP-BINACA was identified in the United States for the first time in blood sample extracts from forensic casework by liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). To date, APP-BINACA has been identified in 11 forensic toxicology cases from five states and in both medicolegal death investigations and drug impaired driving investigations. APP-BINACA was commonly found in combination with 4F-MDMB-BINACA. Subsequent to its discovery in biological samples, APP-BINACA was detected and characterized in seized drug material by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), LC-QTOF-MS, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Further analysis of biological specimens resulted in the identification of five metabolites, including 4-HO-APP-BINACA and APP-BINACA 3-phenylpropanoic acid. The frequency of APP-BINACA detection appears to be increasing and this new synthetic cannabinoid has been identified as a possible contributory factor in adverse events, including death. This is the first literature report regarding the characterization of the new synthetic cannabinoid APP-BINACA in humans. Since it is not widely tested for, it is not yet known the extent to which APP-BINACA is contributing to morbidity and mortality, but forensic scientists, public health officials, and others should be aware of its possible presence and impact. Laboratories should incorporate APP-BINACA into testing workflows for detection and confirmation, where possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA
| | - Amanda L A Mohr
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA
| | | | - Barry K Logan
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE), Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA.,NMS Labs, Willow Grove, PA, USA
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26
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Ong RS, Kappatos DC, Russell SG, Poulsen HA, Banister SD, Gerona RR, Glass M, Johnson CS, McCarthy M. Simultaneous analysis of 29 synthetic cannabinoids and metabolites, amphetamines, and cannabinoids in human whole blood by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry – A New Zealand perspective of use in 2018. Drug Test Anal 2019; 12:195-214. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Shen Ong
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Diana C. Kappatos
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Sarah G.G. Russell
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Helen A. Poulsen
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Faculty of Science and School of ChemistryThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
| | - Cameron S. Johnson
- Drug Chemistry LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Auckland New Zealand
| | - Mary‐Jane McCarthy
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
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27
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Banister SD, Stove CP. Insights into biased signaling at cannabinoid receptors: synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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28
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Evidence of enzyme-mediated transesterification of synthetic cannabinoids with ethanol: potential toxicological impact. Forensic Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-019-00491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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29
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Presley BC, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. In vitro Phase I metabolism of indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid MDMB-CHMINACA via human liver microsome incubation and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:1264-1276. [PMID: 31108568 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2615] [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] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have proliferated over the last decade and have become a major public health and analytical challenge, critically impacting the clinical and forensic communities. Indazole carboxamide class synthetic cannabinoids have been particularly rampant, and exhibit severe toxic effects upon consumption due to their high binding affinity and potency at the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2 ). MDMB-CHMINACA, methyl 2-[1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido]-3,3-dimethylbutanoate, a compound of this chemical class, has been identified in forensic casework and is structurally related to several other synthetic cannabinoids. This study presents the first extensive report on the Phase I metabolic profile of MDMB-CHMINACA, a potent synthetic cannabinoid. The in vitro metabolism of MDMB-CHMINACA was determined via incubation with human liver microsomes and high-resolution mass spectrometry. The accurate masses of precursor and fragments, mass error (ppm), and chemical formula were obtained for each metabolite. Twenty-seven metabolites were identified, encompassing twelve metabolite types. The major biotransformations observed were hydroxylation and ester hydrolysis. Hydroxylations were located predominantly on the cyclohexylmethyl (CHM) moiety. Ester hydrolysis was followed by additional biotransformations, including dehydrogenation; mono- and dihydroxylation and ketone formation, each with dehydrogenation. Minor metabolites were identified and reported. The authors propose that CHM-monohydroxylated metabolites specific to MDMB-CHMINACA are the most suitable candidates for implementation into bioanalytical assays to demonstrate consumption of this synthetic cannabinoid. Due to the structural similarity of MDMB-CHMINACA and currently trending synthetic cannabinoids whose metabolic profiles have not been reported, the results of this study can be used as a guide to predict their metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Presley
- Temple University Department of Chemistry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Susan A Jansen-Varnum
- Temple University Department of Chemistry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Adamowicz P, Meissner E, Maślanka M. Fatal intoxication with new synthetic cannabinoids AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2019; 57:1103-1108. [PMID: 30806094 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2019.1580371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Synthetic cannabinoids are currently the largest group of new psychoactive substances. Those that have been subjected to legal control are replaced by newer uncontrolled substances, which causes constant and dynamic changes to the drug market. Some of the most recent synthetic cannabinoids that have appeared on the "legal highs" market are AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA. Case history: A 27-year-old man was found dead on a bed in an apartment. At autopsy, congestion of internal organs, pulmonary oedema and left-sided pleural adhesions were found. The medical examiner concluded that the man died due to acute respiratory failure. The autopsy materials (blood, urine, liver, kidney, stomach, intestine, lung and brain) were collected for further toxicological analyses. Methods: The synthetic cannabinoids AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA were isolated from autopsy materials by precipitation with acetonitrile. The quantitative analyses were carried out by LC-MS/MS. Results: AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA were detected and quantified in all post-mortem materials except the blood. The determined concentrations of these compounds in solid tissues were in the range of 0.2-0.9 ng/g and 0.2-3.5 ng/g. The highest concentrations of AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA were revealed in the stomach content (5.8 and 36.2 ng/mL, respectively). Discussion: The presented case demonstrates that even in cases of fatalities, it is possible that the parent substance will not be present in the blood, while being present in other autopsy materials. The determined concentrations of the compounds may indicate oral administration of synthetic cannabinoids. It can also be assumed that AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA probably contributed to death. Conclusion: The presented case shows that synthetic cannabinoids can be undetected in the blood of even seriously or fatally intoxicated people. This situation means that the analysis of only blood samples may not confirm poisoning. The presented case also suggests that AMB-FUBINACA and EMB-FUBINACA use is dangerous to health and may lead to fatal intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewa Meissner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
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31
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Floresta G, Apirakkan O, Rescifina A, Abbate V. Discovery of High-Affinity Cannabinoid Receptors Ligands through a 3D-QSAR Ushered by Scaffold-Hopping Analysis. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23092183. [PMID: 30200181 PMCID: PMC6225167 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23092183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Two 3D quantitative structure–activity relationships (3D-QSAR) models for predicting Cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) ligands have been produced by way of creating a practical tool for the drug-design and optimization of CB1 and CB2 ligands. A set of 312 molecules have been used to build the model for the CB1 receptor, and a set of 187 molecules for the CB2 receptor. All of the molecules were recovered from the literature among those possessing measured Ki values, and Forge was used as software. The present model shows high and robust predictive potential, confirmed by the quality of the statistical analysis, and an adequate descriptive capability. A visual understanding of the hydrophobic, electrostatic, and shaping features highlighting the principal interactions for the CB1 and CB2 ligands was achieved with the construction of 3D maps. The predictive capabilities of the model were then used for a scaffold-hopping study of two selected compounds, with the generation of a library of new compounds with high affinity for the two receptors. Herein, we report two new 3D-QSAR models that comprehend a large number of chemically different CB1 and CB2 ligands and well account for the individual ligand affinities. These features will facilitate the recognition of new potent and selective molecules for CB1 and CB2 receptors.
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MESH Headings
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/metabolism
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/metabolism
- Drug Design
- Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
- Ligands
- Models, Molecular
- Molecular Conformation
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Molecular Dynamics Simulation
- Molecular Structure
- Protein Binding
- Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/chemistry
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
- Software
- Static Electricity
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Floresta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Orapan Apirakkan
- King's Forensics, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Antonio Rescifina
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- King's Forensics, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
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