Fingerprinting of 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Markers by Desorption/Ionization on Porous Silicon

Abstract

Desorption/ionization on porous silicon (DIOS) is a method which extends the application range of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. This technique eliminates matrix background in the low mass range; DIOS is especially advantageous in research on small organic molecules and their metabolites in biological samples. DIOS mass spectrometry was applied for 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, (MDMA, Ecstasy) impurities identification. Trace component profiling enables the identification of by-product characteristics for the synthesis route of MDMA. Ecstasy, a synthetic psychoactive drug, is highly popular among young people, and often used as a recreational drug, most commonly during disco parties. MDMA enhances feeling of euphoria by increasing the level of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine and causes acute behavioral and psychological effects. MDMA is almost exclusively produced illegally, primarily in Western Europe. The new method for MDMA impurities profiling has been developed to trace the origin of MDMA pills. For comparison and classification of the impurity profiles, principal components analysis was used.