Compositions and methods for detection of target constituent in exhaled breath
Inventors
Lynn, Michael Scott • Tang, Hamilton Roger • Bechtel, Kate L. • Holst, Peter A.
Assignees
Triple Ring Technologies Inc • Hound Labs Inc
Publication Number
US-10247742-B1
Publication Date
2019-04-02
Expiration Date
2036-07-22
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Abstract
Chemical compositions and methods provide labeling, detection and measurement of target substances in exhaled human breath, and can be implemented in connection with a handheld device—much like a Breathalyzer portable breath testing unit for alcohol—to support rapid quantification of levels of cannabinoid compounds, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), of suspected users at the roadside.
Core Innovation
The disclosed invention provides chemical compositions and methods for labeling, detecting, and measuring target substances in exhaled human breath, particularly focusing on cannabinoid compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These methods are designed to be compatible with handheld devices analogous to portable breath testing units, enabling rapid and reliable quantification of THC levels, such as during roadside testing.
The invention addresses the challenge posed by the extremely low concentrations of THC in human breath and the interference from structurally similar contaminants. The method involves capturing an exhaled breath sample, typically using a breath capture device with an appropriate catch medium. The captured THC is then reacted with a diazotized fluorophore in a solution to form a fluorescent-labeled THC adduct.
After formation, the fluorescent-labeled THC adduct is separated from other sample components, optionally activated, and detected by exposure to a light source that induces fluorescence. The quantity of THC in the sample is determined by measuring the fluorescence intensity. The disclosed method is adaptable for roadside detection and quantification of multiple substances from a single breath sample through a portable device.
Claims Coverage
There is one independent claim in the patent, which defines a method for detecting THC in exhaled breath by means of chemical labeling and optical detection.
Method for detection of THC in exhaled breath using fluorescent labeling
This feature comprises: 1. Combining THC captured from an exhaled breath sample with a diazotized fluorophore in a solution, resulting in formation of a fluorescent-labeled THC adduct. 2. Detecting and determining a quantity of the THC captured from the exhaled breath sample by exposing the fluorescent-labeled THC adduct to a light source, producing fluorescence, and measuring the fluorescence.
The inventive coverage centers on a chemical and optical method for selectively labeling and detecting THC in breath samples via interaction with a diazotized fluorophore, followed by fluorescence measurement.
Stated Advantages
Enables rapid, portable quantification of THC levels in exhaled breath, suitable for roadside testing.
Provides a non-invasive and convenient method for detecting recent THC use, as opposed to blood or urine tests that may yield false positives long after use.
Addresses technical challenges related to detecting extremely low concentrations of THC and separating target constituents from similar chemical interferences.
Can be implemented in handheld, Breathalyzer-type devices using established breath sample protocols.
Documented Applications
Roadside detection and quantification of THC in suspected users during traffic stops.
Quantification of multiple substances, such as THC and alcohol, in exhaled breath using a portable handheld device.
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