DETECHIP: a sensor for drugs of abuse

J Forensic Sci. 2010 May;55(3):723-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2010.01323.x. Epub 2010 Feb 25.

Abstract

The design and preliminary characterization of a novel sensor for drugs of abuse, DETECHIP, is described in this proof-of-concept note. Combining both colorimetric and fluorimetric assays, DETECHIP is suitable for lab and field use. More than a conventional spot test which provides a single "yes or no" answer, DETECHIP provides twenty responses for a more complete characterization of suspect material. This is accomplished by visually noting colorimetric and fluorescent changes of carefully selected dyes upon the addition of test analytes, including drugs of abuse, with respect to controls. Color and fluorescence changes are recorded numerically so that a 20 digit identification code can be constructed for comparison of test analytes and known compounds. DETECHIP is applicable to a variety of drugs, both plant-derived and synthetic, addressing the need to use several different spot tests simultaneously for a single sample.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Colorimetry
  • Coloring Agents
  • Drug Contamination
  • Fluorometry
  • Forensic Toxicology / instrumentation
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / chemistry
  • Narcotics / chemistry*
  • Nonprescription Drugs / chemistry
  • Spectrophotometry
  • Substance Abuse Detection / instrumentation*
  • Substance Abuse Detection / methods

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Illicit Drugs
  • Narcotics
  • Nonprescription Drugs