The Determination of Synthetic Cannabinoids from Wastewater Samples

Lori Graziosi

Co-Presenters: Aseel Albibi

College: College of Liberal Arts

Major: BA.PSYCHOLOGY

Faculty Research Mentor: Mingjing Sun

Abstract:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are psychoactive components of cannabis in the endocannabinoid system. Synthetic cannabinoids were created for research use to absorb a greater understanding of endocannabinoid receptors in the body, thus leading to a worldwide illegal distribution of them across the world. Synthetic cannabinoids mimic the effects of marijuana but do not contain any chemically related factors. The usage is prohibited for human consumption but for individuals to feel the effects of marijuana at a cheaper price and for a less risky drug screening, individuals turn to synthetics. Synthetic cannabinoids are a man-made drug in which compounds get sprayed onto tea leaves or grass clipping for usage of smoking. This has led to deaths and future health problems amongst people across the world as it is not safe for consumption. It has a ten to one-hundred times greater binding affinity to receptors in the brain, making it easier for psychoactive components in the brain to be active. Methods used for detection of synthetic cannabinoids may include filtering the wastewater following gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). By using these techniques, we can detect and monitor synthetic cannabinoids that may be in our wastewater systems. Synthetic cannabinoids in wastewater are necessary to be monitored in respect of community consumption.