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Endogenous isopropanol: forensic and biochemical implications
Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|September 1, 1984
Summary
Acetone can be converted into isopropanol through a newly discovered metabolic pathway. This finding is crucial for forensic investigators interpreting alcohol levels in biospecimens.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Biochemistry
- Metabolic Pathways
Background:
- Isopropanol and acetone are frequently detected in biospecimens.
- Unexplained isopropanol findings in individuals without known exposure necessitate origin studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin of isopropanol found in biospecimens.
- To determine if acetone can be converted to isopropanol in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Incubation of acetone, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), and NADH at physiological conditions (pH 7.3, 8.8; 37°C).
- Analysis of reaction products using headspace gas chromatography (GC).
- Confirmation of product identification via GC/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).
Main Results:
- Isopropanol is produced from the reduction of acetone, particularly at pH 7.3.
- This reaction demonstrates an alternative metabolic pathway for acetone.
- Established reference ranges for endogenous isopropanol in unexposed decedents: blood (1-29 mg/dL), liver (7-59 mg/100 g), brain (2-12 mg/100 g), kidney (6-26 mg/100 g).
Conclusions:
- Acetone reduction to isopropanol represents a novel metabolic route.
- Forensic toxicologists must exercise caution when interpreting low isopropanol concentrations in biospecimens.
- Consideration of this endogenous production is vital for accurate forensic analysis.