NM-2201

NM-2201 is a synthetic cannabinoid that belongs to the indazole carboxamide family of compounds. It has been designed for use in research and development environments to study its pharmacological properties and potential interactions with cannabinoid receptors. NM-2201 operates primarily by targeting the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, exhibiting a high level of affinity and potency toward these receptor sites. This makes it an effective compound for studying the mechanisms of synthetic cannabinoids and their potential applications, as well as for investigating broader receptor-ligand interactions in the field of cannabinoid research.

Chemically, NM-2201 is classified as an indazole-based synthetic cannabinoid. Its systematic identification can be attributed to its distinct molecular structure, which consists of an indazole core attached to a carboxamide group that is further linked to a fluoropentyl chain. Its IUPAC name is naphthalen-1-yl 1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxylate, describing its molecular composition and configuration in precise terms. With the molecular formula C24H22FN3O3, NM-2201 has a molecular weight of 403.45 g/mol. These chemical attributes contribute to the compound’s ability to interact effectively with cannabinoid receptor sites, making it an important element in synthetic cannabinoid research.

The compound typically appears as a fine, white crystalline powder. NM-2201 is soluble in organic solvents such as dimethylformamide (DMF) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), providing flexibility for its use in various laboratory techniques. Its solubility profile ensures that it can be prepared in solution formats for advanced analytical methodologies like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These techniques are crucial for isolating, identifying, and quantifying NM-2201 in research settings to gain further insights into its properties.

Research conducted on NM-2201 has primarily focused on its ability to bind selectively to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are part of the larger G-protein coupled receptor family and play key roles in various physiological functions, including pain modulation, immune response, and appetite regulation. NM-2201’s structural similarity to naturally occurring cannabinoids allows it to serve as a reliable model for studying how synthetic cannabinoids mimic the action of endocannabinoids in biological systems. However, the compound’s high receptor affinity also necessitates caution due to its potential to produce pronounced effects at even low concentrations.

Numerous laboratory studies have implemented NM-2201 to explore its binding profiles, metabolic pathways, and potential impact on enzyme activity. For example, research has demonstrated that the metabolism of NM-2201 can result in the formation of hydroxylated and carboxylated metabolites, which can be further analyzed using advanced spectrometric techniques. Understanding the metabolic transformations of NM-2201 provides valuable data not only for designing new cannabinoid analogs but also for elucidating the broader characteristics of synthetic cannabinoid metabolism in the human liver and other systems.

The practical applications of NM-2201 extend beyond simple receptor interactions. Scientists have used it as a reference compound in the development of assays to detect synthetic cannabinoids in biological samples. These assays play a significant role in forensic and toxicological investigations, particularly given the global rise in synthetic cannabinoid use. NM-2201’s well-defined chemical profile allows researchers to develop accurate detection standards, thereby contributing to public health and safety initiatives. Its inclusion in studies related to drug design and therapeutic development also highlights its potential utility in the pharmaceutical industry.

To ensure proper handling, NM-2201 should only be used in controlled, professional laboratory environments. The compound is highly potent, meaning standard safety precautions must be followed during transport, use, and storage. It is critical to store NM-2201 in a cool, dry place away from direct light and moisture to maintain its stability. Laboratories employing this compound should also adhere to local and international regulations governing the use of synthetic cannabinoids, recognizing the need for comprehensive documentation and secure protocols to mitigate any misuse.

While NM-2201 is primarily utilized for research purposes, it is crucial to emphasize that it is not intended for human consumption or direct clinical application. The compound’s effects at high doses or over prolonged periods remain insufficiently explored, and as such, its use in any unregulated setting poses significant risks. Researchers studying NM-2201 should remain mindful of these limitations to ensure their work adheres to ethical and regulatory guidelines in cannabinoid research.

Across scientific industries, NM-2201 has emerged as a robust tool for advancing the understanding of synthetic cannabinoids and their interactions with biological systems. Its precise molecular properties, coupled with its efficient receptor activity, make it a compound of interest for investigating pharmacodynamics and structure-activity relationships. Its versatility across a range of analytical methodologies ensures its continued relevance in cannabinoid research, while its application in toxicology and forensics serves broader societal purposes.

Finally, NM-2201 underscores the broader potential of synthetic cannabinoids as investigative tools, allowing scientists to study the role of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease. With careful handling and thoughtful application, NM-2201 continues to contribute to the ongoing effort to unlock the complexities of this essential physiological network.