Delta-9-THC-11-oic acid glucuronide is a metabolite of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9-THC), the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. When Delta-9-THC is metabolized in the body, it undergoes various transformations, including conjugation with glucuronic acid.
Glucuronidation is a process in which the body adds a glucuronic acid molecule to a compound, such as Delta-9-THC, to enhance its water solubility and facilitate elimination from the body. This metabolic pathway is primarily carried out by enzymes in the liver.
Delta-9-THC-11-oic acid glucuronide is formed when Delta-9-THC is conjugated with glucuronic acid at the 11th carbon position. This conjugate is a larger, more polar molecule than Delta-9-THC itself, which aids in its excretion through urine or feces.
The presence of Delta-9-THC-11-oic acid glucuronide in urine or blood samples can be used as an indicator of recent cannabis use. It is commonly measured in drug tests to detect the presence of Delta-9-THC and its metabolites.
It’s important to note that Delta-9-THC-11-oic acid glucuronide is considered an inactive metabolite and does not possess the same psychoactive properties as Delta-9-THC. Its detection in biological samples does not necessarily imply intoxication or impairment at the time of testing.
Further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and significance of Delta-9-THC-11-oic acid glucuronide in relation to Delta-9-THC metabolism and cannabis use.