Top resources for cannabis potency testing
A compilation of application notes, latest news and videos to aid scientists in testing the potency of cannabis products, both for medical and recreational markets
6 Dec 2019
“With around 100 molecules in the plant, we can probably point to 500 of them which have some kind of biological effect.” Dr. Markus Roggen, founder of Complex Biotech Discovery Ventures.
With the increase in demand for many cannabis-based products, there is a pressing need for scientists to consolidate potency standards for both quality control and the accurate labeling of products. As it stands, “potency” is primarily determined through the quantitation of major cannabinoids such as THCA, THC, CBD and CBN. However, as Roggen points out, many other metabolites are now being considered in cannabis production to ensure product consistency is achieved.
In this week’s cannabis testing compilation, we’ve rounded up some of the latest techniques and technologies in potency testing to help scientists quantify these molecules and streamline their analysis, with insight on LCMS, UPLC, high-performance water purification systems, optimized gas chromatography and more.
Discover a rapid, selective and robust method for the detection of various cannabinoids using the Shimadzu LCMS-8050. This application note demonstrates the ability of the Nexera X2 UHPLC and LCMS-8050 mass spectrometer to enable simultaneous, accurate measurement of many cannabinoids of interest.
The Scientists’ Channel: Dr. Markus Roggen, Complex Biotech Discovery Ventures
Dr. Markus Roggen, founder of Complex Biotech Discovery Ventures (CBDV), highlights the importance of collaboration in cannabis science. A chemist by background, Roggen discusses the challenges of consistency within cannabis production as a result of the 500 or so molecules within the plant that may have a biological effect.
In this application note, Waters presents the modification of a simple isocratic HPLC separation of 16 cannabinoids to a separation under UPLC conditions. An increase in testing productivity greater than a twofold can be observed, whilst maintaining linearity, selectivity and suitability.
Application note: Analytical cannabis testing and the importance of high-quality water
State and Federal regulations for cannabis testing continue to evolve and grow. This means the robustness of testing services must increase to keep pace with these intensifying regulations. High-performance water filtration systems, such as the arium® Series from Sartorius, provide long-term practical and economical advantages to cannabis testing.
Industry news: 4 infographics on sample prep techniques for GC and GC-MS
Markes International has released a series of infographics summarizing sample preparation techniques for GC and GC-MS. Each infographic explains a sample prep technique covering how it works, key applications, advantages and disadvantages and more. These infographics are useful for anyone who wants to optimize their gas chromatography techniques, including for use in cannabis potency testing.
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