By means of thin-layer chromatography, an unidentified alkaloidal fraction was observed in illicit cocaine. Because of its persisting presence, efforts were undertaken to isolate and identify this fraction. Various analytical techniques showed complex results, finally pointing to the possibility of isomerization of constituents of the fraction. A direct-probe mass spectrum showed a fragmentation pattern which could only fit a truxilline. When using thin-layer chromatography, at least five isomers could be observed. This is the first time truxillines have been observed, isolated, and identified by thin-layer chromatography.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.