A study published in the Journal of Chromatography A examined the use of mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to test the profile of illegal cannabis gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) (2). LC is a commonly used technique for analyzing cannabinoids, potency testing, and detecting mycotoxins and pesticides, while cannabis operators often use GC for evaluating residual solvents and terpenes. The researchers hypothesized that the mass spectrometry (GC–MS) approach is suitable for use by law enforcement organizations conducting the seizure of narcotic samples and testing illicit cannabis.
The researchers used GC-MS to profile the cannabinoids and terpenes of 25 Cannabis sativa L. flowering tops confiscated from January 2022 to July 2023. The Scientific Investigation Department RIS, Carabinieri of Messina (Messina, Italy) supplied these samples. The research team analyzed the samples for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content and other cannabinoids. The research team compiled the data into a statistical model to illustrate the helpful parameters for classifying seized samples.
The study used GC–MS and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID) analyses after microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MAHD) extraction to determine the terpene profile. The team used a multidimensional gas chromatography (MDGC) approach, isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (C-IRMS), and MS detection to assess the enantiomeric and carbon isotopic ratios of selected enantiomeric couples.
The study documented a combination of qualitative (volatile fraction and THC/CBD contents), chiral, and isotopic data. The findings suggested a correlation between specific narcotic samples. The time and place of narcotic sample seizures can point to a common trafficking origin. Law enforcement authorities could use this methodology to contain the illicit cannabis market.
The researchers plan to collect a more significant number of seized samples in a future study. The research team believes that more rigorous strategies to trace cannabis production and distribution in illegal markets will become critical as more states and countries legalize cannabis.
Sources: Cannabis Tech, Chromatography Online, Journal of Chromatography A