Synthetic cannabinoids undergo rapid and extensive metabolism to phase I metabolites that can sometimes retain high potency or may even be toxic compared to their parent compounds. Because of this rapid metabolism in vivo, it is typically impossible to detect the parent synthetic cannabinoids in biological samples. Metabolite detection is often the only viable way to determine synthetic cannabinoid exposure. Cayman's scientists have developed this laboratory guide for toxicologists and drug chemists to help identify these clinically relevant metabolites from several major classes of synthetic cannabinoids.

In this guide for synthetic cannabinoid metabolism we review:

• The Phase I Metabolite Biotransformation Pathway
  
• Metabolites of Amide-, Ester-, and Carbonyl-Linked Head Group Classes of Synthetic Cannabinoids
  
• Typical Synthetic Cannabinoid Metabolism Patterns
  

Review the list of primary resources used to collate this guide here. 

More than 100 structurally and physiologically distinct cannabinoid compounds are unique to plants of the genus Cannabis, known collectively as phytocannabinoids. Here we present the biosynthesis and degradation pathways of phytocannabinoids derived from the olivetol, varinol, and orcinol series and explain the conventions that have been adopted for nomenclature and structure numbering systems.

In this guide for drug identification and naming:

• Common Synthetic Cannabinoid Mass Spec Fragments
  
• Mass Spectrum of MMB-FUBINACA and Tips for Interpretation
  
• Synthetic Cannabinoid Naming Conventions by Head, Core, and Tail Groups
  

The cannabinoid (CB) receptors are two of the most widely expressed GPCRs in the body. When coupled to G_i/o proteins their activation can negatively regulate adenylate cyclase and/or positively regulate MAPK signaling. Conversely, when coupled through G_s proteins, CB₁ activation promotes adenylate cyclase signaling. CB₁ also modulates a host of ion channels through Gi/o coupling including A-type inwardly rectifying potassium channels (IRK) and N-type and P/Q-type calcium channels (Ca_v2.2, Ca_v2.1). The two major functions of these receptors are neuromodulatory, inhibiting neurotransmitter release through retrograde signaling, and immunomodulatory, regulating cytokine release and immune cell migration.