In this study, researchers enhanced the selectivity of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) using a two-column chromatographic method developed to enable additional confirmation regarding the identity of a compound.
This research project developed and validated an automated sample preparation technique for the quantitative evaluation of an expanded cannabinoid panel in whole blood and additional biological matrices, using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) in accordance with the standard promulgated by the American National Standards Institute/Academy Standards Board (ANSI/ASB) 036, Standard Practices for Method Validation in Forensic Toxicology. The objectives for the project were 1) expand the traditional scope for cannabinoid testing for forensic toxicology laboratories to include phytocannabinoid constituents from plant material and metabolites that are used in consumer products; 2) investigate commercially available stationary phase substrates and instrumental conditions to increase selectivity and mitigate ionization suppression commonly encountered in the analysis of cannabinoids in biological matrices; and 3) develop and validate an automated sample preparation technique for the quantitative analysis of cannabinoids in biological matrices using LCMSMS. Within the research project, a method was developed for the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of cannabinoids in biological matrices using supported liquid extraction. The methodology employed LCMSMS with two analytical columns of different stationary phases to enhance the confirmation of cannabinoids. Two methods (quantitative and qualitative) were validated in accordance with ANSI/ASB 036) 036, Standard Practices for Method Validation in Forensic Toxicology. Given the structural similarities of cannabinoids, specifically tetrahydrocannabinol isomers, it is imperative to have chromatographic separation for proper identification and quantitation. Within the validations, the evaluation of interferences from other cannabinoids was critical in the assessment of the method and its validity.