Related Experiment Videos
Detection of psilocin in body fluids
1Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Cologne, Melatengürtel 60-62, D-50823, Köln, Germany.
Forensic Science International
|September 9, 2000
Summary
This study details the detection of psilocin, a hallucinogenic compound from magic mushrooms, in human blood and urine. Most psilocin is excreted as a glucuronide, requiring enzymatic hydrolysis for accurate analysis.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Magic mushrooms containing psilocybin and psilocin are known for their hallucinogenic effects.
- Accurate detection of these compounds is crucial in forensic investigations.
Observation:
- Psilocin was detected in urine samples from a 'magic mushroom' intake case using REMEDi HS.
- The majority of psilocin in both urine and serum was found in its conjugated (glucuronide) form.
Findings:
- Enzymatic hydrolysis is a necessary first step for psilocin analysis.
- Free psilocin concentrations were 0.23 mg/l (urine) and 0.018 mg/l (serum).
- Total psilocin concentrations were 1.76 mg/l (urine) and 0.052 mg/l (serum).
- GC-MS method with d(3)-morphine and MSTFA silylation proved effective for psilocin detection.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the importance of considering conjugated metabolites in toxicological analysis.
- Validated analytical methods are essential for accurate identification and quantification of psilocin in biological samples.
- This research aids in understanding psilocin metabolism and improving forensic detection capabilities.