In Vitro Metabolism of Metonitazene in Camels: High-Resolution Mass Spectrometric Characterization for Doping Control

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Veterinary Science

Background:

• Novel psychoactive substances, including benzimidazoles like metonitazene, pose a risk of misuse in animal sports.
• Robust detection systems are essential for fair competition and athlete welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro metabolism of metonitazene in camels.
• To identify potential biomarkers for long-term metonitazene detection in camel doping control.

Main Methods:

• In vitro studies using camel liver homogenates.
• Analysis of metabolites using a Thermo Fisher Orbitrap Exploris LC-MS system.
• Method validation and metabolite identification using Compound Discoverer software.

Main Results:

• Seven Phase I metabolites of metonitazene were identified in camel liver homogenates.
• Metabolic transformations were mainly dealkylation reactions.
• Identified metabolites show potential as markers for metonitazene detection.

Conclusions:

• High-resolution LC-MS is effective for identifying metonitazene metabolites in camels.
• Identified metabolites provide a basis for doping control strategies in camel racing.
• Results support regulatory frameworks for animal welfare and sport integrity.