Chemical Profiling and Characterization of Different Cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. Inflorescences by SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-MS

Abstract

The chemical profile of the Cannabis sativa L. female inflorescences is rather complex being characterized by a large number of molecules belonging to different chemical classes. Considering the numerous applications in various fields, including the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, that have seen a large use of Cannabis genus in recent years, a precise characterization of the matrices is essential. In this regard, the application of adequate and suitable sampling and analysis techniques becomes important in order to provide an identification of the metabolites characterizing the profile of the sample under examination. The goal of this work is to provide additional information on the chemical composition of the inflorescences of five C. sativa different cultivars grown in Emilia Romagna (Italy) through the application of sophisticated analysis techniques such as Solid-Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-MS). The obtained data highlighted the presence of a high number of volatile and non-volatile compounds, thus allowing a comparative evaluation of the different samples. Furthermore, an in-depth statistical survey by Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and HeatMap, Hierarchical luster Analysis (HCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA-VIP), was conducted to consider any correlations between the investigated cultivars. The findings of this study may help to provide more information on the C. sativa inflorescences useful for potential applications of their metabolites in scientific research.