Human Sensory LTP Predicts Memory Performance and Is Modulated by the ValMet Polymorphism.

: Long-term potentiation (LTP) is recognised as a core neuronal process underlying long-term memory. However, a direct relationship between LTP and human memory performance is yet to be demonstrated. The first aim of the current study was thus to assess the relationship between LTP and human long-term memory performance.

Pharmaceutical quality of "party pills" raises additional safety concerns in the use of illicit recreational drugs.

Aim: To determine the content and release kinetics of 1-benzylpiperazine (BZP) and 1-(3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)piperazine (TFMPP) from "party pill" formulations. From these data, the possible impact of pharmaceutical quality upon the safety of such illicit formulations may be inferred.

Methods: The amount of BZP and TFMPP in party pill formulations was determined using a validated HPLC method.

Validation of an LC-MS method for the detection and quantification of BZP and TFMPP and their hydroxylated metabolites in human plasma and its application to the pharmacokinetic study of TFMPP in humans.

An LC-MS method was developed for benzylpiperazine (BZP) and trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP), constituents of "party pills" or "legal herbal highs," and their metabolites in human blood plasma. Compounds were resolved using a mixture of ammonium formate (pH 4.5, 0.

In vivo interactions between BZP and TFMPP (party pill drugs).

Aim: This study explores potential drug-drug interactions between BZP and TFMPP. This was achieved by comparing the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of BZP and TFMPP when taken together with previously published data on their individual metabolism and pharmacokinetics.

Method: Blood and urine samples were collected from seven participants given a combined dose of BZP (100 mg) and TFMPP (30 mg) and analysed by LC-MS in order to quantify the concentrations of BZP, TFMPP, and their major hydroxylated metabolites 3-OH BZP, 4-OH BZP, and 4-OH TFMPP.

Metabolic interactions with piperazine-based 'party pill' drugs.

Objectives: 'Party pills' have found use worldwide as a substitute for amphetamine-derived designer drugs. Whilst some information exists about the metabolism of these drugs, there is little information about their ability to inhibit the metabolism of co-administered drugs. This study aimed to determine whether predictions can be made about global interactions between 'party pills' constituents and other drugs metabolised by the same cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes.

Party pills and drug-drug interactions.

Aim: This study aimed to explore the potential for drug-drug interactions involving benzylpiperazine (BZP) and trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP). This was achieved by determining the effects of BZP and TFMPP on the metabolism of drugs commonly found in the clinical setting by using pooled human liver microsomes.

Method: Incubations consisted of a probe substrate (drug of interest), a potential inhibitor (BZP or TFMPP), a suitable enzyme co-factor (NADPH), and pooled human liver microsomes.