Recent advances in the development of portable technologies and commercial products to detect Δ9‑tetrahydrocannabinol in biofluids: a systematic review
Abstract
Background: The primary components driving the current commercial fascination with cannabis products are phytocannabinoids,
a diverse group of over 100 lipophilic secondary metabolites derived from the cannabis plant. Although
numerous phytocannabinoids exhibit pharmacological effects, the foremost attention has been directed towards Δ9-
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol, the two most abundant phytocannabinoids, for their potential human
applications. Despite their structural similarity, THC and cannabidiol diverge in terms of their psychotropic effects,
with THC inducing notable psychological alterations. There is a clear need for accurate and rapid THC measurement
methods that offer dependable, readily accessible, and cost-effective analytical information. This review presents
a comprehensive view of the present state of alternative technologies that could potentially facilitate the creation
of portable devices suitable for on-site usage or as personal monitors, enabling non-intrusive THC measurements.
Method A literature survey from 2017 to 2023 on the development of portable technologies and commercial
products to detect THC in biofluids was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google
Scholar. A systematic review of available literature was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic.
Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.
Results: Eighty-nine studies met the selection criteria. Fifty-seven peer-reviewed studies were related to the detection
of THC by conventional separation techniques used in analytical laboratories that are still considered the gold
standard. Studies using optical (n = 12) and electrochemical (n = 13) portable sensors and biosensors were also identified
as well as commercially available devices (n = 7).
Discussion: The landscape of THC detection technology is predominantly shaped by immunoassay tests, owing
to their established reliability. However, these methods have distinct drawbacks, particularly for quantitative analysis.
Electrochemical sensing technology holds great potential to overcome the challenges of quantification and present
a multitude of advantages, encompassing the possibility of miniaturization and diverse modifications to amplify sensitivity
and selectivity. Nevertheless, these sensors have considerable limitations, including non-specific interactions
and the potential interference of compounds and substances existing in biofluids.
Conclusion: The foremost challenge in THC detection involves creating electrochemical sensors that are both stable
and long-lasting while exhibiting exceptional selectivity, minimal non-specific interactions, and decreased susceptibility
to matrix interferences. These aspects need to be resolved before these sensors can be successfully introduced
to the market.
Publication Reference
Volume 6, article number 9, (2024)
Year
2024-02-27