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Determination of cannabinoids in low-volume human whole blood samples by online extraction using turbulent flow chromatography and HRAM Orbitrap MS

Thermo Fisher Scientific
20 Nov 2023

In this application note, Thermo Fisher Scientific discusses the implementation of an analytical method for the specific and sensitive determination of cannabinoids in low-volume human whole blood samples. The method utilizes a Thermo Scientific™ Transcend™ II TLX-1 TurboFlow™ chromatography system coupled to a Thermo Scientific™ Q Exactive™ Focus hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap™ mass spectrometer. Due to the common recreational use of cannabis, cannabinoids are frequently detected in samples of forensic toxicological interest, such as those related to driving under the influence of drugs, drug-facilitated crimes, or post-mortem toxicology cases.

The traditional analysis of cannabinoids in human whole blood involves time-consuming and expensive steps, including offline liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) or solid phase extraction (SPE), as well as analyte derivatization for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The presented method streamlines the process by incorporating online sample clean-up and advanced mass spectrometry techniques. The approach involves the addition of isotopically labeled internal standards (IS), followed by a simple offline protein precipitation step and online extraction using turbulent flow chromatography (Thermo Scientific™ TurboFlow™ technology). Detection is performed using high-resolution, accurate-mass hybrid quadrupole Orbitrap™ mass spectrometry (HRAM Orbitrap MS) in positive/negative switching Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM) acquisition mode. This method is designed to provide a simple, fast, highly specific, and sensitive analytical solution for determining cannabinoids in blood, offering potential benefits for toxicological laboratories.

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UHPLC and HPLCHigh performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC), also known as UPLC, are analytical techniques used to separate, identify and quantitate components of complex mixtures including biological samples such as proteins and lipids as well as chemical mixtures of pesticides, drugs and oils. Both techniques are liquid chromatographic methods but differ by operating pressures (HPLC < 6000 psi < UHPLC ). Components of HPLC and UHPLC systems include columns, detectors, pumps, autosamplers and column heaters. Explore a range of UHPLC and HPLC columns for your specific sample needs including reverse phase, normal phase, ion exchange, HILIC, ion exclusion and size exclusion columns. For more specialized HPLC, explore FPLC, countercurrent LC and simulated moving bed systems. Find the best UHPLC and HPLC equipment in our peer reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.LC-MSLC-MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) systems and equipment are used for separation and quantitative analysis of complex mixtures, combining liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Quantify proteins, contaminants, pesticides or screen for drug metabolites with a high level of sensitivity. LC-MS systems and equipment include reverse phase, normal phase and specialized columns integrated with various MS detectors such as time-of-flight (TOF), quadrupole, orbitrap or ion trap mass analyzers. LC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzer give greater sensitivity and resolving power to your analysis. Find the best LC-MS equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Toxicology / Drugs of Abuse TestingToxicology and Drugs of Abuse Testing is the investigation into toxic and illegal substances found at the scene of a crime or from a suspect and / or victim associated with a scene of a crime. Analyzers, immunoassays and drugs of abuse test kits and presumptive test kits are an essential aspect of toxicology investigation.GC-MS GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) instruments and equipment are used to separate, quantify and identify mixtures of small and volatile compounds, such as polycyclic aromatics, fatty acids and alcohols. Often used in drug detection, forensic investigation and environmental analysis for pesticides and contaminants, GC-MS is a powerful addition to your lab’s analytical capabilities. GC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzers can give greater sensitivity and resolution to your analysis. Find the best GC-MS instruments and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Mass SpectrometryMass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and quantify molecules based on the mass-to-charge ratio of gas-phase ions. It provides detailed information about the structure, composition, and properties of compounds and is widely used across fields such as environmental monitoring, materials science, drug discovery and development, food and beverage testing, and wider chemical research. Key MS techniques include tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LS-MS) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Choosing from these wide range of techniques and technologies can be a daunting task, so keep up to date with scientific applications, performance expectations, and customer reviews here all in one place. Visit our product directory to receive quotes direct from the manufacturer. CannabinoidsCannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis that have therapeutic effects, such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and potential neuroprotective benefits. Research into cannabinoids is growing, particularly in the fields of pain management, neurological diseases, and cancer treatments. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best cannabinoid research tools, compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.

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