Wiley expands forensic capabilities with updated designer drugs database
Wiley has announced the release of its 2025 edition of the Mass Spectra of Designer Drugs database, a critical resource expanding forensic laboratories’ capabilities in the identification of illicit substances. The updated database represents a substantial advancement in analytical tools available to forensic scientists combating the proliferation of novel psychoactive substances.
Database enhancements
The latest iteration provides access to 36,360 spectra representing 27,500 unique chemical entities, with this year’s update introducing more than 1,260 new spectra and over 780 unique compounds. These additions focus on substances of significant forensic interest, including fentanyl variants, xylazine, synthetic opioids, and cannabinoids.
Forensic applications
“Forensic laboratories require up-to-date databases to stay ahead of emerging NPS trends. This resource remains crucial in the ongoing battle against drugs,” explained Graeme Whitley, director of data science solutions at Wiley.
The database integrates with most major mass spectrometry data systems and is available through Wiley’s KnowItAll subscription service, offering advanced analytical capabilities.
Technological integration
The system’s automated non-targeted analysis features allow for efficient processing through feature detection, automatic deconvolution, and library searching. For compounds without exact matches, the patented MS Adaptive Search tool provides insights into potential structural possibilities, while drug classification models assist in identifying novel compounds.
This annual update represents Wiley’s continuing commitment to providing forensic scientists
with comprehensive analytical tools supporting the identification of emerging substances in toxicological and forensic investigations.
For more information, visit:
https://sciencesolutions.wiley.com/solutions/technique/gc-ms/mass-spectra-of-designer-drugs
