Semi-synthetic cannabinoids (SSCs) represent an emerging class of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPSs) that are often advertised and sold as legal. SSCs can be described as partially synthetic materials that are derived from natural components of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant, such as Cannabidiol (CBD). New studies on the in-vivo and in-vitro metabolism of SSC’s, such as Δ¹⁰-THC, Δ^6a,10a-THC, and HHC, are emerging, which detail the similarities and differences seen to natural phytocannabinoid like Δ⁹-THC.

Alicyn Stothard and Jonathon Bassman, synthetic organic chemists at Cayman Chemical, discuss the overall landscape of newly emerging SSCs and their metabolism, along with a case study utilizing LC/MS-based identification of putative in-vitro metabolites for the SSC’s Δ¹⁰-THC and Δ^6a,10a-THC.

Presented as part of the CFSRE's 2025 Current Trends in Forensic Toxicology Symposium.

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The pharmacology of several naturally occurring phytocannabinoid constituents of Cannabis sativa L., such as Δ⁹-THC, has previously been studied and well-documented in the scientific literature. However, since the deregulation of hemp in the 2018 USDA Farm Bill, new semi-synthetic structurally related isomers, analogs, and homologs have emerged, presenting new chemical entities with unknown metabolic profiles.

Listen as Nathan Layle, a synthetic organic chemist at Cayman Chemical, discusses the LC/MS-based identification of putative in vitro metabolites of the semi-synthetic tetrahydrocannabinols Δ¹⁰-THC and Δ^6a,10a-THC.

Presented as part of the 77th Annual Scientific Conference of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

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Intoxicating hemp and synthetic cannabinoids have permeated the cannabis market, but there are not many regulatory requirements for production and product testing. The disparity in quality and safety between cannabinoid-containing products found in state-legal dispensaries and those available in gas stations or smoke shops is significant and concerning. Moreover, there's a general lack of awareness among lawmakers about the intricacies of laboratory testing and the distinctions between natural and synthetic cannabinoids.

Loopholes in the 2018 Farm Bill legislation have led to an increase of psychoactive THC products within the marketplace. Listen as Jeffrey B. Williams, Manager of Phytocannabinoid R&D at Cayman Chemical, discusses isomers, homologs, and analogues of tetrahydrocannabinol. Learn about the structural differences of new psychoactive products that are appearing showing up in Cannabis and Cannabis-based products, as well as associated challenges in identification and separation of these substances.  Do you have a question or comment for the presenter? Let us know.

The revival of research into psychedelics as medicine has given rise to increased interest in psilocybin-containing fungi. Psilocybin and its active metabolite psilocin are currently undergoing numerous clinical trials for various maladies such as depression, PTSD, addiction recovery, and smoking cessation among others. Given this renewed interest it is important to consider the chemistry behind these tryptamines as well as appropriate sample preparation, storage, and preferred handling conditions. Listen as Danielle St. Germaine, a scientist from Cayman’s Forensic Chemistry Division, discusses the biosynthesis pathways, analytical considerations and challenges, and handling and preparation recommendations for psilocybin and psilocin.

Presented during Analytical Cannabis’s Advances in Psilocybin Research webinar.

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