19 Drug Discovery, Pharmaceuticals & Cannabis Testing


Additionally, we partner with Dr Kevin Schug at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), whose analytical expertise enhances the scientifi c rigor to psychedelic studies. The partnerships with Fritsch USA Milling and MilliporeSigma exemplify our commitment to employing state-of-the-art methodologies and products, ensuring our research adheres to the highest standards of quality and reliability. Utilising the Pulverisette to grind samples, automated settings allow for easy and reproducible sample processing and the option to cryomill samples provides for greater sample processing fl exibility as matrixes change. From the mass spectrometry sample protocol developed at UTA [8], our modifi ed protocol followed a similar schema with adjustments to ensure adequate sample concentration for the UV detector’s sensitivity change and suffi cient water in the sample to better match the mobile phase.


As the psychedelics’ market matures, an opportunity to refi ne and improve old methods and terminology has emerged. A point of contention recognised during the Pittcon workshop was the continued use of the term ‘potency’ to describe the concentration of psychedelics, which was an error used in cannabis markets. While this may continue, as scientists we can strive to push proper terminology and methods for better written laws and information sharing. Furthermore, it was observed that some edibles are being mislabelled, an issue that has plagued the cannabis industry. Namely, compounds labelled as containing psilocybin and psilocin may actually contain no detectable amounts but may contain other ingredients such as opiates. Furthermore, even when measuring psilocybin, it is important to include a weight-adjusted psilocin content as both contribute to the total psilocin content in vivo.


As we continue to explore the therapeutic potentials of psychedelics, our guiding principles remain steadfast: a commitment to pioneering emerging markets and an unwavering focus on consumer safety. Shimadzu Scientifi c Instruments is not merely navigating the evolving landscape of psychedelic research; we are setting the course, ensuring that our endeavors are anchored in scientifi c integrity and a profound commitment to improving human health. Looking ahead, we envision a future where the therapeutic benefi ts of psychedelics are fully realised and integrated into mainstream healthcare, always with paramount consideration for consumer safety. We stand as active participants in the unfolding story of psychedelics, dedicated to uncovering truths that lie at the intersection of science, society, and safety, contributing to a future where mental health treatments are more effective, compassionate, and accessible.


Shimadzu’s extensive expertise and experience across a broad spectrum of fi elds - academia, clinical research, environmental sciences, forensics, and pharmaceuticals - uniquely positions us to bring unparalleled clarity and standardisation to the realm of psychedelics quality control testing, as well as to pioneer the exploration of new therapeutic benefi ts. Our deep involvement in academia and clinical research


has honed our ability to navigate the complexities of scientifi c inquiry and drug development, ensuring the generation of reliable, reproducible data essential for advancing understanding. In environmental sciences, our precision in detecting and analysing minute quantities of substances translates into an unmatched ability to quantify psychedelic compounds accurately, regardless of their complexity. Our forensics experience, dealing with strict standards for evidence analysis, underpins our commitment to rigorous quality control and validation processes, critical for the standardisation of psychedelic testing. Furthermore, our pharmaceutical background ensures that our methodologies not only meet but exceed industry standards for drug safety and effi cacy, facilitating the integration of psychedelics into therapeutic regimens. Together, these diverse areas of expertise allow Shimadzu to spearhead advancements in psychedelics research, bringing scientifi c rigor, innovation, and safety to the forefront of this emerging fi eld.


Our journey through the psychedelic domain is just one example of our broader mission to harness the power of science for the betterment of humanity. Our work in the psychedelic space is a testament to our ability to adapt, innovate, and contribute to the evolving landscape of medical research, always with an eye towards the future and the health and safety of those we serve.


References


1. PSYCHEDELICS 101: Emerging Trends, Applications and Advances in Psychedelics Quality Testing symposium at Pittcon 2025 (San Diego). For all speakers and talks, please visit https://labscievents.pittcon. org/event/pittcon-2024/planning/UGxhbm5pbmdfMTY2ODAwNA==


2. The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Past, Present, and Future. doi: 10.1038/npp.2017.84


3. The Past and Future of Psychedelic Science: An Introduction to This Issue. https://doi.org/10.1080/0279 1072.2019.1606472


4. Psychedelic Legalization & Decriminalization Tracker. https://psychedelicalpha.com/data/psychedelic- laws


5. FDA Guidance on clinical trails involving psychedelic drugs https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press- announcements/fda-issues-fi rst-draft-guidance-clinical-trials-psychedelic-drugs


6. The Unique i-PDeA Analysis Method. https://www.shimadzu.com/an/service-support/faq/software- informatics/i-pdea/index.html


7. Intelligent peak deconvolution through in-depth study of the data matrix from liquid chromatography coupled with a photo-diode array detector applied to pharmaceutical analysis. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. chroma.2016.09.037


8. Determination of psilocybin and psilocin content in multiple Psilocybe cubensis mushroom strains using liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry, Analytica Chimica Acta, Vol 1288, 1 Feb 2024. https:// www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000326702301382X


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