Volumetric absorptive microsampling device for forensic Toxicologic screening: A case report as proof-of-concept

Volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) has emerged as an alternative sampling strategy for toxicological analyses, but its applicability in forensic autopsy settings remains insufficiently documented. In this study, we evaluated the use of Mitra™ VAMS devices for qualitative toxicological screening in a real-life medico-legal context, with particular attention to the identification of new psychoactive substances. Multiple biological matrices including peripheral and cardiac blood, urine, bile, and vitreous humor were collected during the autopsy of a 43-year-old male deceased in a suspected chemsex context, using both conventional sampling and Mitra™ devices. Samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry using both targeted and untargeted screening. Comparable qualitative detection profiles were obtained between conventional samples and Mitra™ microsamples across all matrices. Targeted screening identified several psychoactive substances, including methamphetamine, opioids, and the synthetic cathinone α-PHP. Non-targeted analysis combined with molecular networking enabled the characterization of α-PHP and its phase I and phase II related compounds across matrices, providing a coherent metabolic profile in a forensic context. These results indicate that Mitra™-based microsampling can support qualitative toxicological screening and non-targeted analysis in post-mortem investigations when sample volumes are limited. When integrated into a structured analytical workflow combining targeted and non-targeted HRMS approaches, VAMS shows promise for improving toxicological analyses and supporting forensic identification strategies.