BackgroundCannabis has an adverse effect on the ability to drive safely, therefore a rapid disposable test for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, is highly desirable for roadside testing.ResultsA screen printed carbon electrode is used for the N-(4-amino-3-methoxyphenyl)-methanesulfonamide mediated detection of Δ9-THC in saliva. Mediator placed in an overlayer was galvanostatically oxidized and reacted with Δ9-THC to give an electrochemically active adduct which could be detected by chronoamperometric reduction. Detection of 25-50 ng/mL Δ9-THC spiked into undiluted saliva was achieved with a response time of 30 s. A trial of the sensors with four cannabis smokers showed sensitivity of 28 %, specificity of 99 % and accuracy of 52 %.ConclusionsRapid electrochemical detection of Δ9-THC in undiluted saliva has been demonstrated using a disposable sensor, however the sensitivity is lower than acceptable. Further optimization of the assay and sensor format is required to improve the sensitivity of response to Δ9-THC.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract