Izabela Krzemień, Hubert Stankowicz, Maciej Tadeusz Gawlik

Application of metabolomics in toxicological analysis
2023-12-07

The aim of this article was to present the most important aspects of the modern application of metabolomics in toxicological analysis. Information contained herein comes from works that have appeared in recent years in specialist periodicals and publications devoted to the discussed issue. The first part of the work defines metabolomics, outlines its main area of interest and distinguishes it from other ”omics”. Afterwards, two strategies in metabolomics research are described: targeted, which is characterized by the quantification and qualitative determination of a specific, selected pool of 50 to 500 metabolites, and non-targeted, which measures all metabolites present in the sample, which is referred to as the “metabolomic fingerprint”. The course of a standard metabolome analysis is also presented, with an emphasis on the techniques of sample preparation and analyte determination, as well as proper selection of the method for the tested material.

The following part of the article discusses selected studies related to the use of metabolomics in the diagnosis of drug use and in the assessment of drug toxicity. The article discuses experiences related to new biomarkers, such as GHB metabolites, which can extend the diagnostic window of this substance, and compounds whose absence in the urine indicates adulteration and manipulation of this material. It also highlights the efforts of scientists in the development of a predictive model enabling the prediction of pharmacological profiles of NPS, as well as research to deepen the knowledge of the metabolism and pathological effects of psychoactive substances, including cocaine and methamphetamine. The final part of the work is devoted to the use of thanatometabolomics in forensic post mortem toxicological analysis and the latest reports describing attempts to use metabolomics in computer-aided toxicological predictive analysis. This review highlights new application opportunities for metabolomics and its current struggles with practical application in the field.

Keywords: metabolomics, toxicological analysis, NPS, PMI, narcotic drugs.

© Farm Pol, 2023, 79(8): 443–452