Screening method for the characterization of anabolic steroids seized in Brazil using paper spray mass spectrometry and chemometric tools

This paper reports the use of paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) combined with chemometric models to analyze seized samples of anabolic steroids. Because many forensic laboratories typically demand high-throughput analysis for this type of sample, we developed a quicker and simpler alternative analytical method for routine analysis with minimal sample preparation. Oily samples (n = 39) resulting from seizures carried out by Brazilian Federal and State Police units were selected for this study. These samples were analyzed by PS-MS in the positive ion mode and full scan (50-1000 m/z), providing spectra containing patterns of the respective active ingredients present in each product. A principal component analysis (PCA) model was built, which discriminated samples mainly according to their active ingredients and allowed to detect and characterize some cases of product counterfeiting. The variable selection method ordered predictors selection was employed jointly with PCA to improve sample cluster separation and to provide model simplification. The final PCA model was built with three principal components and using only 28 spectral variables. This model accounted for 69.82% of the variance and discriminated samples according to their specific active ingredients.

Automated summary

This study reports the use of paper spray mass spectrometry combined with chemometric models to analyze seized samples of anabolic steroids. The developed method demonstrated the ability to identify active ingredients and detect counterfeit products.